Bobby Gwyn Barnhill, 81, died November 24, 2017. She was a third-generation New Mexican.

A self-described nosey person, she intended to be a court reporter but took a different direction when she was asked out for coffee by Jim Barnhill, a fellow University of New Mexico student.

In the 1960s, Bobby and Jim began working for his parents’ business – Barnhill Bolt Company Inc. She became the first woman president of the Western Association of Fastener Distributors and served two terms.

In 1997, Bobby and Jim were inducted into the NIFS Fastener Hall of Fame.

In her 50s, she educated herself on computer technology and helped develop the first computer program used in the fastener industry.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Jim; and a daughter, Dr. Jamie G. Barnhill.

Survivors include Joan “Korkie” Kerkin, Ross and Connie Barnhill; Lynn Barnhill; John and Shannon Barnhill; six grandchildren; and Jim’s sister and her husband, Mary and Dick Silver.

Services were December 2, 2017, at French-University. 

Messages to the family may be sent c/o Barnhill Bolt Inc., 2500 Princeton NE, Albuquerque, NM 87107. Email: dee@barnhillbolt.com