Barbara Virginia Hepner

The world lost an amazing woman on August 8, 2026, when Barbara V. Hepner, 83, passed away peacefully at her home in Layton, Utah, following a long illness.

Barbara was born on May 13, 1943, in Vallejo, California, to Finley F. Wilkinson and Virginia H. Wilkinson. When she was four years old, her family relocated to Bountiful, Utah, where she spent her childhood and attended Bountiful High School.

While in high school, Barbara met David W. Barlow, who quickly won her heart. The couple married on July 3, 1959, and together they welcomed three children: Jodee, Cory, and Rod. Although their marriage ended after 14 years, the family they built together remained one of Barbara's greatest blessings.

Barbara's adventurous spirit was evident from a young age. In 1965, she accepted an introductory flight in a small aircraft and immediately fell in love with aviation. Determined to pursue her dream while raising three young children, she worked evenings and nights at Francesco's Restaurant in Bountiful to earn money for flying lessons. Her hard work and perseverance paid off when she earned her Private Pilot License in 1965 and her Commercial Pilot License in 1967. 

Barbara proudly purchased her first aircraft, a Cessna 182, N2722Q, affectionately known as "22." That same year, she was hired by Jelco, Inc. as a pilot, giving her the rare opportunity to make a career out of doing what she loved most. She became an active member of The Ninety-Nines, the international organization of women pilots, flying "22" to numerous events and participating in several Powder Puff Derby races across the United States. 

Never one to stop learning or pushing boundaries, Barbara continued her aviation education and, in 1972, earned her Learjet type rating, becoming the first woman in the United States commercially rated to fly the Learjet. This groundbreaking achievement helped pave the way for future generations of women in aviation. Her accomplishments earned national attention, including an appearance on the television game show "What's My Line?", where she successfully stumped the panel as the "Captain of a Private Jet Airplane."

While working at Jelco, Barbara met Kenneth L. Hepner, who shared her passion for aviation. They were married on December 17, 1975, beginning a partnership rooted in adventure, determination, and love. In the late 1970s, Barbara and Ken founded and operated Barken International, a private jet charter company. Together, they not only built a successful business but also mentored and influenced many young pilots who went on to enjoy successful aviation careers of their own.

Beyond her extraordinary professional achievements, Barbara's greatest pride was her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose strength, determination, generosity, and love touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. 

Outside of aviation, Barbara embraced life with the same enthusiasm and fearless spirit that defined her career. In the early 1970s, she enjoyed snowmobile racing, adding yet another chapter to her long list of adventures. She also loved scuba diving and exploring the wonders of the underwater world. A talented and creative woman, Barbara found joy in needlepoint and painting, creating treasured pieces that reflected her artistic spirit. An avid reader, she loved getting lost in a good book and remained a lifelong learner with an endless curiosity about the world around her.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Finley and Virginia Wilkinson; her beloved husband, Kenneth L. Hepner; and her twin great-grandsons, Brooks and Beckham Morgan.She is survived by her children, Jodee (Bret) Morgan, Cory (Pam) Barlow, and Rod (Jamie) Barlow; eight grandchildren; and fifteen great-grandchildren, and her siblings Beckie (Paul) Larsen, Frank (Sylvia) Wilkinson, Deb (Marda) Wilkinson and Cynthia Wilkinson all of whom brought immeasurable joy to her life.

Barbara also held a special place in her heart for her beloved dogs, Katie and Cami, who preceded her in death. Her love for animals reflected the same kindness, compassion, and nurturing spirit she shared with family and friends throughout her life.

Barbara was a true pioneer who never shied away from new challenges, whether in the air, on the snow, underwater, or through her creative pursuits. Her adventurous spirit, pioneering courage, and unwavering love will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, the barriers she broke, and the family she cherished. May her example of courage, determination, and compassion continue to inspire all who knew her.

Our family would like to express our gratitude to the many caregivers who assisted with Mom's care, along with compassionate staff of Canyon Home Care and Hospice, whose support and kindness meant so much during her final journey.

A viewing will be held Friday, August 14, 2026 from 11:00 a.m -12:00 p.m., at Russon Mortuary, 295 North Main, Bountiful, Utah. 

Graveside services will follow at 12:30 p.m., at the Lakeview Cemetery, 1640 East Lakeview Dr., Bountiful, Utah.