In Memory of Barbara Barber

Barbara Barber

A tribute to a life of service to the City of Everett

On Sunday, June 5, 2011, Everett lost another advocate for the city. Barbara Barber had died and with her death many of the services she performed in Everett come to an end. For more than 30 years, Barbara faithfully served as the Secretary to her church, Glendale United Methodist Church on Ferry Street. She was the Administrative Assistant to the Everett Chamber of Commerce for 22 years until 2010. And for more than 40 years, Barbara worked with the Everett Girl Scouts of America. For more than 15 years, she was a volunteer with Morgan Memorial Goodwill Industries where one of the activities she participated in was the “Fashion Thru the Ages,” a fashion show with clothing from 1863 through the 1980s.

There are only a handful of people who come into your world and touch your life in a dramatic fashion  Some of the people are just flickers of light during a long life, while others are consistent glows for years. Barbara was my consistent glow. She made and kept friendships near and far, and she maintained those friendships to the end.

Barbara was a good wife and Mother; she was a brilliant businesswoman; she was a good listener. Many will remember asking her advice on work and personal matters. Things big and small. She listened to our concerns and offered advice freely. People always felt so comfortable around her.

Barbara leaves her three children, Rick, Scott and Kristin Ericson. She is predeceased by her husband, Gary Barber.

For Barbara, family was number one with her church a very close second. At Glendale, Barbara not only served as Secretary, but was on many committees and worked hard to keep Glendale open. At the Everett Chamber of Commerce, Barbara was a strong advocate for the businesses of our city. She knew so much about members of her church and the businesses of Everett. She was the go to person when you needed information.

Barbara will not be easily forgotten. Her legacy will continue. Her service to others will continue from her example.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 11, 2011 at 11:00 am at Glendale United Methodist Church on the corner of Ferry and Walnut Streets, across from Glendale towers.