Barbara Jean Walking Eagle, age 79, of Ft. Totten, ND passed peacefully away on Friday, October 31, 2025 at Sanford Hospital, Fargo, ND surrounded by her loving family.

Barbara Jean was born o September 29, 1946 in Ft. Totten, ND to Michael (Brownie) and Irene (Jetty) Cavanaugh. She was raised in St. Michael, ND and graduated from Maddock High School and a proud graduate of Mayville State University, where she earned her degree in Library Science.

She was united in marriage to Carl Walking Eagle on July 02, 1968 at Los Angeles, CA they later established their home in Crow Hill, together they had 4 children Carletta, Curtis, Carlene and Carl Jr., as well as joining two stepchildren to the marriage, Rochelle and Benny Wayne. Barbara worked as a Librarian at Little Hoop Community College and later at Four Winds School where she shared her love of learning with countless students and community members, encouraging curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge.

She was a member of Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Ft. Totten and also loved attending Saint Michael Catholic Church in St. Michael. Her faith was central to her life, and in 1999 she was able to take a special trip to Medjugorje with her mother, sister Viola (Cookie), friends Bernadine Solway, and Gail Martinson – a journey that deepened her devotion and brought her great peace. She found joy in the simple things such as tending her flower gardens, visiting family, playing cards, watching Gun Smoke and hitting the buttons at the casino. Her laughter, love, and generosity will forever remain in the hearts of those who know her.

She is survived by her children Curtis (Mindy) Walking Eagle of Ft. Totten (Crow Hill), ND, Carlene (Doug) Peltier of Grand Forks, ND and Carl Jr. of Ft. Totten (Crow Hill), ND; Siblings: Michael, Clifford, and Bruno Cavanaugh, Diane (Butch) Lohnes, Viola (Leo) Delorme, Loretta (Glenn) Delorme, Cheryl (Al) Laducer, and Judith (Dave) LaRocque; Grandchildren Chelsea, Shanice, Tashina, Riley, Curtis Jr, Gracie, Gage, Gabby Jean, Brennon, Brelyn, Brenner, Kaylee, Shay, Shalee, Stetson, Mayleina (May May), Carleigh, Carlynn, Carlisle, Carl III; 14 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her Parents: Michael and Irene Cavanaugh; Husband: Carl Walking Eagle; Daughter: Carletta Walking Eagle; Stepdaughter Rochelle Walking Eagle; and Grandson: Michael Walking Eagle; Sister: Maxine Foss; Brothers: Bruno F. Cavanaugh and Marvin Anderson; Many loving in-laws.

Barbara’s Visitation will be Wednesday, November 5, 2025 from 8:00-9:00AM with a Rosary at 9:00AM, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00AM all at St. Michael Catholic Church, St. Michael, ND.

 Her Burial will be at the Walking Eagle Cemetery.