Longtime Downey school board member Barbara Samperi dies

DOWNEY — The Downey Unified School District announced the passing of longtime Board of Education member Barbara (Bobbie) R. Samperi, who died Friday morning following several months of health challenges.

Raised in Downey and a proud Warren High School graduate, Samperi devoted her life to serving local children and families. She and her husband, Daryl, were married in 1972 and raised two sons in Downey, where both attended Downey Unified schools.

Samperi joined the Board of Education in 1993 after years of involvement in parent-teacher organizations and community leadership roles, including 15 years on the City of Downey’s Community Services Commission. She quickly became known as a tireless advocate for students, educators and the community at large.

Her contributions to the district were recognized in 2013 when she was among the first inductees into the Warren High School Hall of Fame. The Warren High administration building also bears her name, a lasting testament to her service.

“Bobbie Samperi was truly dedicated to Downey Unified,” said Board of Education President Linda Saldaña. “For 32 years her focus was on our students getting the best education and supporting staff to be their best. Bobbie’s wit and insight added clarity to every meeting where she helped shape our district into what it is today. We are forever grateful for her service.”

The district expressed its condolences to her husband, Daryl, their sons, and the entire Samperi family. Memorial service details will be shared once they become available.