Barbara Roufs was an American model and trophy girl who became famous for her stunning beauty and charisma in the drag racing scene of the 1970s. She was one of the most photographed women in the sport, and her images are still admired by many fans today. However, her life was cut short by a tragic suicide in 1991. This article will explore her biography, career, family, and cause of death.
Early Life and Family
Barbara Roufs was born in 1944 in Southern California, United States. She was the daughter of Thelma Ruby Riles and Wayne Eldon Riley, who were both involved in motorcycle racing. She had three biological siblings: Vivian Deaton, James Riles, and Bruce Riley, and one adopted brother: Ben Gube. According to WikiBioAges, she grew up in a loving and supportive family, and enjoyed fishing and boating with them on McClure Lake.
Career as a Trophy Girl and Model
Barbara Roufs started her career as a trophy girl in the early 1970s, when drag racing was undergoing a transformation from the golden age of the 1960s. The cars became faster and more powerful, and the fashion for women changed as well. They wore long hair, short shorts, and freedom tanks, and often went braless. Barbara Roufs fit perfectly into this style, with her long straight hair, gogo boots, and stunning physique. She was 29 years old when she joined the drag racing circuit, making her one of the oldest trophy girls in the sport.
As a trophy girl, Barbara Roufs presented awards to the winners of the races, posed for photos with the drivers and the cars, and interacted with the fans and the pit crews. She worked for the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) and the Professional Dragster Association (PDA), and was a favorite of many photographers, especially Tom West, who was a close friend of hers. She also modeled for various clothing brands and magazines, and appeared in several TV shows and movies.
Personal Life and Relationships
Barbara Roufs was married twice in her life. Her first husband was John Roufs, whom she married in 1962. They had a daughter named Jet Dougherty, who was born in 1963. However, their marriage did not last long, and they divorced in 1966. Her second husband was Jim Walther, whom she married in 1975. They had a happy marriage, and Jim supported her career and hobbies. They also had a son named James Walther, who was born in 1976.
Barbara Roufs was a friendly and outgoing person, who had many friends in the drag racing community. She was also a passionate animal lover, who owned several dogs and cats. She enjoyed traveling, gardening, and collecting antiques.
Cause of Death and Legacy
Barbara Roufs died by suicide in January 1991, at the age of 46. The exact reason for her death is unknown, but some sources suggest that she was suffering from depression and financial problems. She left behind a note for her husband and children, expressing her love and regret. She was cremated, and her ashes were scattered in the Pacific Ocean.
Barbara Roufs is remembered as one of the most beautiful and charismatic women in drag racing history. She brought joy and excitement to the sport, and inspired many other women to pursue their dreams. Her photos and videos are still widely shared and admired by fans, and she has been featured in several documentaries and books about drag racing. She is also honored by the Barbara Roufs Memorial Award, which is given annually to the best trophy girl in drag racing.