Another bright light of the Greatest Generation dimmed at the sudden passing of Barbara Ann Nelson Anderson. She was born August 25, 1929 in Gunnison, Utah, the youngest child of Stena Alwilda Willardsen and Abinadi Nelson who were descendants to early settlers to the Sanpete Valley.
She was raised in Gunnison and educated in local schools and Snow College. Her mother, widowed when Barbara was three, successfully raised the large family with the help of older children. This instilled in her an attitude of respect, the value of work and a special closeness to all of her brothers and sisters. She likewise learned from her mother faith and humility, keeping a good and welcoming home and garden as well as always looking your best.
She married Jay Albert Anderson in the Manti Temple November 9, 1951 forming a long and loving relationship. Their early married life began in Manti where they were quickly involved in church and civic activities.
Jay's employment with the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service sent him to Price, Utah where they raised their family and enjoyed associations with new cultures, friends and opportunities to serve others through church and civic organizations.
Barbara worked for Carbon-Emery Bank, J.C. Penney Co. and eventually established her own beauty salon.
Upon retirement they moved to Salt Lake City to be closer to their son and daughter. They purchased a home with a generous apartment for Jay's older sister, Margaret, so she could age at home close to family. They quickly became part of their new neighborhood. Their house was a favorite place, especially for the neighborhood children. Barbara continued to keep her hairdressing business going on a limited basis and began working at Juliette's where she found it a privilege to assist women, especially those who had experienced breast cancer. She understood fully the needs of her customers to look and feel their best. Her quiet graciousness will forever be remembered.
She is preceded in death by her parents, an infant daughter, Jerilyn, her husband Jay, her son's life partner Kent Perkins, sisters Flora, Shirley and Hazel, brothers Lucien, Merrill and Morris.
Survived by son J. Scott Anderson, daughter Tracy Ann Lidbom, as well as grandchildren Mary Melissa Shultz (Tony), Kirk Ellis, Michael Ellis, Clara Furlow, and Randi Rose Furlow. great grandchildren Allie and Zak Shultz and brother Reed.
She will be missed by her best and dearest friends Joy Peterson, Flora Keller and Kathleen Loyola as well as her extended family and friends.
Visitors may pay their respects Thursday, October 9, 2014 from 6‚8 p.m. at Larkin Sunset Lawn Mortuary, 2350 East 1300 South. Funeral services will be held Friday, October 10, 2014 at 11 a.m. at the Parley's Stake Center, 1870 East Parley's Canyon Blvd. (2315 South). Visitors may greet family one hour prior to service. A luncheon and gathering will follow the service at 1 p.m. Interment Saturday, October 11 at 12 noon Manti City cemetery. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Larkin Mortuary.