Barbara Sargent

Barbara Sperry Sargent, 88, affectionately called “Barbie” by family and friends, died peacefully on Saturday, February 4, 2012. She was surrounded by her loving family. Barbara was a life long resident of Idaho Falls. Barbara was born on August 28, 1923 in a small home located in the Shelton area to Mabel Burtenshaw Sperry and William Joy Sperry. She had one older brother, John Sperry, who is now deceased. She grew up in the Shelton area and graduated from Rigby High School. After graduation, She began working at the Ririe Creamery. Later, she met and married Hollis T. Sargent in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple on September 16, 1942. When Hollis was released from his military service, they leased the family farm in Coltman until purchasing a farm in the Milo area, where they raised their family. In 1986, they divorced, but remained friends. For fifteen years, Barbara worked at the Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce as the office manager. She enjoyed meeting and helping people from around the world, providing information about the community and surrounding areas. After leaving the Chamber of Commerce, she worked as an agent for Magic Carpet Travel. It was then that she began her love of traveling. The following are a few of the places she visited: she floated the Amazon River, was one of the first to visit China, stayed with friends in Japan, traveled to Peru, Europe, Korea, Canary Islands, Virgin Islands, Tahiti, New Zealand, Australia, Mexico, Hawaii, and enjoyed numerous cruises. She loved meeting new people, and exploring new places, cultures, and countries. Barbara was always busy. She loved camping and the camp fire, and went as often as possible. In the summer. She had beautiful flower gardens for everyone to enjoy. She was an avid reader, especially of history and inspirational books. She loved crocheting around towels and sewing baby blankets to give to family and friends. Barbara had lifelong friends she met for coffee and lunches to share a laugh, a joke, or just a hug. She was the “eternal optimist,” always believing that tomorrow would be better. She touched so many lives with her unfailing kindness, words of wisdom, a laugh, and her famous chocolate chip pumpkin cookies. Her home was a source of peace and love. She is remembered, loved, and missed by all those whose lives she touched. Survivors include: her children Gary Sargent, Sandra Sargent, and Joy (John) Tucker, as well as 7 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, and her former husband. Private family services will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to a favorite charity in her memory.

Private Family Services

Notes: In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to be made to a favorite charity in her memory.