In Loving Memory
Honoring the Life of
Barbara Ann Kamilipua Nobriga
March 7, 1938 — April 20, 2026
A daughter of Hawaiʻi, a kona cowgirl at heart, and a steward of the land. Barbara lived a life rooted in family, community, and cultural practices. Her legacy carries on in every pasture walked, every story told, and every life she touched.
Join Us
Celebration of Life
Family and friends are warmly invited to gather, share stories, and celebrate Barbara's beautiful life.
Date
Saturday, August 15, 2026
Time
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location
Mahealani Ranch
79-7327 Mamalahoa Hwy
Kealakekua, HI 96750
Her Story
About Barbara
"We are born of the land. Products of a historic legacy, acknowledge it and appreciate it, your roots are deep in many directions"
1938
Born on Moku o Keawe
Barbara Ann Kamilipua was born on March 7, 1938, into a family deeply tied to the land and ranching traditions of Hawaiʻi.Early Years
Raised in the Saddle
From a young age she rode alongside her family, learning the values of the land, stewardship, hard work, and horsemanship.Community
Strengthening and enrichment
Barbara was dedicated to volunteerism.
- Napua O Holo Lio 4H Club
- Daughters of Hawaii
- Kona Historical Society
- Kamehameha Day Parade
- Preservation of Kauikeaouli birth site
- In 1991, she received a Governor of Hawaii First Lady Volunteer Award.
- 1999 — Recognized as Rancher of the Year, by Kona Soil Conservation District.
- 2000 — Leadership Recognition Award. 30 years of volunteer 4-H leadership in Hawaii.
- Awarded a plaque of gratitude from the Nā Pua O Holo Lio families.
- 2003 — Inducted into the Paniolo Hall of Fame.
"Our communities are richer because of people like you"
"Mom would take in anyone who needed a place and anyone we brought home."
"She would do her best to meet their needs. They never left empty handed."
2026
A Legacy
Barbara passed peacefully on April 20, 2026, surrounded by family and love, leaving behind a legacy carried in every hoofprint, every story, and everyone she met.
In the media
Accolades and Honors
PBS Hawaiʻi Presents: Pau Hana Years — Huliheʻe Palace
PBS Hawaiʻi
A PBS Hawaiʻi feature on the history and people of Huliheʻe Palace.
Barbara Kamilipua Nobriga
Ke Ola Magazine
A profile celebrating Barbara's life, ranching legacy, and community work.
Barbara Nobriga
YouTube
A video remembrance of Barbara's life and impact.
Honoring Barbara Nobriga
Paniolo Preservation Society
A tribute to Barbara's contributions to paniolo heritage.
Barbara Nobriga
A shared story and remembrance from Facebook.
Barbara Kamilipua Nobriga
Paniolo Hall of Fame Inductees
Barbara's official Paniolo Hall of Fame induction page.
Legacy of Paʻu Featuring Barbara Nobriga
Kahilu TV
A Kahilu TV feature on the legacy of paʻu riding and Barbara's role in preserving the tradition.
In Their Words
Shared Memories
Gathering memories…