Thanks to Dianne Ludlam for letting us know of Gail's passing. Dianne and Gail were lifelong friends. Thank you Cheryl Pope Bumgarner for researching and finding the obituary.

Gail Elizabeth Ledbetter Barber

Eugene, Oregon

1947-2017

Gail Elizabeth Barber, 69, died on Saturday, February 4, 2017. She was born November 2, 1947 in Shelby, North Carolina to James Lewis and Minnie Lou (Thrift) Ledbetter, and was the eldest of four daughters.

Gail always knew she wanted to teach; her earliest memory was wishing she could teach Sunday School. She graduated from Winthrop College with a focus on early childhood education. After many years teaching in public schools, serving as Director of Education at her church, and volunteering countless hours at her children's schools she founded a weekday preschool that she ran for nearly two decades through Riviera Baptist.

She was a tender-hearted and dedicated Christian, passionately devoted to raising her family. Even in retirement she continued to teach an array of adult courses from bible studies to training fellow teachers in early childhood education. Her commitment, patience, and gentle nature were clear reminders of her obvious talent for teaching.

Gail always sang. While driving, cooking, preparing school lessons, whatever the occupation, Gail sang. She was full of joy, always ready to laugh, and remarkably creative, and instilled these ideals in her children, with a particular emphasis on self-expression. She taught her children to appreciate music and art and the importance of creating both. The paintings of Van Gogh and the traditional Appalachian folk songs her family sang growing up were particular favorites. Gail had many dear friends, but remarkably met her best friend, Ellen, in third grade and they have remained best friends throughout their lives. In addition to her other skills, Gail was an accomplished seamstress. What free time she had was spent sewing, crocheting, working puzzles, painting, snuggling with her family, or cooking. Holy cow, could that woman cook! She was a true southern woman who always made sure everyone was well fed, with smiles.

In 2008, Gail retired. She was married almost 49 years and is survived by her beloved husband, Steven; children: Joel, Susannah, Daniel, Roben (honorary), grandpets Roxy, Stella, and Odin, and grandson (honorary) Elijah.

Memorial Services will be held Saturday, April 29th, 2017 at 1:30 pm at Riviera Baptist Church, 3071 River Rd., Eugene, OR. Reception to follow. Flowers may be sent to Riviera Baptist Church. The family would like to thank loved ones for their continued support during this difficult time.
 

Published in Eugene Register-Guard