Barbara Ann Doll

Barbara Ann Doll passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home of 70 years on April 15, 2025. Born Barbara Castle, she was married to Ray Sponcel from February 21, 1952 to January 16, 1974, and to Richard Doll from November 30, 1990 until his passing September 4, 1994.

A proud native of Phoenix, Arizona, born November 18, 1931, she was the third of six children born to Frank Castle and Rosa Schieszer. She was the St. Mary’s High School Student Body President for the class of 1949, a Girl Scout Leader and PTA President for 12 years for her daughters at Tavan Elementary. She turned a secretarial and managerial job at Sandige Realty into a successful real estate brokerage of her own, Castle Properties (1968 - 1998). She loved to travel with friends and family, making many motor home trips across the country with Dick and the Rotary Club.

She is survived by her sister Dorothy Petersen, brother John Castle, daughters Norma Sponcel and Sharon Sponcel, granddaughter Emma Humphrey, great grandson Grant Ishikawa, stepdaughter Sheila Gottschling and her daughters Stephanie, Samantha, and Julia. Barbara was an inspiration, caring and generous, maintaining relationships that bridged time and distance. She will be greatly missed by both her family and friends.

A memorial service for family and friends will take place at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85018, on Thursday, May 1st with a visitation at 11:00 a.m. and service to begin at 12 p.m. Burial at St. Francis Cemetery. A celebration of Barbara's life will follow at her home from 2:00 - 5:00 pm at 4305 E. Flower Street. At her request, no dark or dreary colors; wear your brightest colors to reflect the beauty of her home garden. 

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in her name to the Arizona Historical Society at: weblink.donorperfect.com/supportazhistory