Barbara Roufs was a stunning figure in drag racing in the 1970s. She added so much spice to the image of winners at the time, and her appearance was very different from trophy girls.
However, she suddenly ended up taking her own life without any warning. What happened? In this post, we’ll tell you everything we know.
Barbara Roufs Quick Profile
Here’s a glance at Barbara Roufs’ information:
- Full Name: Barbara Riley Roufs
- Gender: Female
- Nationality: American
- Date of Birth: 1944
- Parents: Wayne Eldon Riley, Thelma Ruby Riley
- Place of Birth: Southern California, United States
- Occupation: Model and drag race trophy girl
- Religion: Christianity
- Spouse: Unknown
- Children: Jet Dougherty
- Died: January 1991
Barbara Roufs’ Early Life
Barbara Roufs was born in 1944 in California to Thelma Ruby Riley & Wayne Eldon Riley. She had four siblings—two brothers, one sister, and one adoptive brother. Her siblings are James, Bruce, Ben, and Vivian. She grew up in a family deeply connected to motorsports.
This connection was primarily because of her father, a motorcycle racer who often competed at the Kearney Bowl, a local racetrack.
From an early age, Barbara was exposed to the excitement of racing, spending weekends watching her father compete. It’s safe to say that this had a significant impact on her chosen career as a trophy girl later on.
Now, let’s get back to the family. Barbara grew up with four siblings: Vivian Deaton, James, Bruce, and Ben Gube. Her mother operated a beauty salon and played the organ at local churches.
After Barbara completed her education, she found herself drawn back to the racing scene, but not as a driver. Instead, she became a trophy girl at drag racing events, stepping into this role at 29, far older than most other girls who go for such a job.
What’s a Trophy Girl?
A trophy girl is a term used to describe a young, attractive woman who symbolizes a successful man’s status, particularly in motorsports and racing events.
In drag racing, trophy girls typically appear at events to present trophies to winners, participate in photo opportunities, and engage with fans and participants.
During the 1970s, the role of trophy girls evolved significantly. Unlike earlier eras, when they wore elaborate outfits with heavy garments and hats, trophy girls in this period embraced a more revealing style, often donning short shorts and go-go boots.
Barbara Roufs was one notable trophy girl who gained fame in this role. She stood out for her beauty and being one of the older participants in a field dominated by younger women.
What Happened to Barbara?
Despite being every young man’s dream at the time, things went suddenly grim for Barbara. In January 1991, she took her own life at the age of 47. Nobody knows for sure what happened or what led her to do that.
Reports indicate that she was dealing with personal challenges that affected her mental health at the time. However, no sources indicate the nature of said challenges.
We do have some reasons that may have contributed to this, but take them with a grain of salt as they’re just people’s speculations:
Transition Away from Fame
After her career as a trophy girl, Barbara experienced a significant shift in her public persona. The transition from being a celebrated figure in drag racing to a more private life may have led to feelings of isolation and loss of identity.
Cultural Pressure
Barbara may have lacked a robust support system after she departed from the racing scene. The racing community, which had once celebrated her, might not have been as accessible or supportive during her later years.
In other words, everybody surrounded her, and suddenly, there was nobody.
Lack of Support
As a woman in a male-dominated sport, Barbara may have faced societal pressures regarding beauty and success. The evolving standards of the drag racing industry and the expectations placed on women could have impacted her self-esteem and mental well-being.
Barbara Roufs’ Personal Life
Barbara was a wife and a mother at one point in her life, but the exact details of everything aren’t always available, and when they are, they sort of conflict.
We’re sure she had a daughter named Jet Dougherty when she was 29. However, nobody knows who the husband was, as she rarely publicly addressed that aspect of her life.
Barbara Roufs’ Net Worth
Barbara Roufs had an estimated net worth of approximately $1.5 million at her death in 1991. Her wealth primarily stemmed from her successful career as a trophy girl and model in the drag racing scene during the 1970s.
Final Thoughts
We all go through difficulties in life. The lack of support, paired with hidden depression and personal struggles, has taken so many people away from us.
Nobody knows precisely why Barbara took her life, but nobody takes their life unless something significant is going on, and it’s a shame that nobody was able to pick it up at the time.
May she rest in peace.
