Barbara Tilley

Our beloved Mother, Barbara Jean Tilley, passed peacefully into the arms of God on October 20, 2020. Barbara was born on January 6, 1934 in Osborn Kansas, to Henry Charles Wilson and Ruth Blanche Wilson. At age 4, along with her older siblings, Lowell and Betty, the family moved across country the little town of Filer Idaho; escaping the infamous “dust bowl days.” Eventually settling in the neighboring town of Twin Falls, the little family of five put down their roots. Barbara graduated from Twin Falls High School in 1952, where her classmates and friends referred to her as “sweet”, “a swell gal”,” brilliant”, “fun” and “artistic!” On July 6, 1954, Barbara married Ray R. Tilley of Hansen Idaho. Eventually the newlyweds settled on Ray’s family homestead where they raised their three children: Randall, Cara & Martin. Barbara immersed herself in the role of farm wife and Mother. Of course, every year there was a big garden to plant, tend and harvest. She would fill the canning jars and the freezer each Fall. There was good eating all Winter long; and oh, what a great cook she was! The Tilley farm became a popular hub for family gatherings, reunions, and play days with the cousins. Often there were trips to the foothills for sledding, snowmobiling, skiing, dirt biking and camping. On many occasions we would enjoy heaping bowls of homemade ice cream, churned in the old hand crank freezer. This was and continues to be a tasty tradition in the family. Barbara was a generous hostess, and always welcomed her children’s friends, to whom many she became a caring Mother figure. As their children grew up and left the nest, Barbara and husband Ray took in a few strays, and not just the four-legged variety. Eventually the grandchildren would start arriving, beginning a new generation of fun farm memories. Oh, how she loved those babies! Barbara had many hobbies that showcased her creative flare. She was a gifted seamstress making countless garments for her children and others. In her later yearsshe mastered the art of quilt making. She truly had a God-given talent. Each child, grandchild and great-grand child received more than one of Grandma’s quilts; three of which she finished shortly before she passed. Until recently, Barbara, along with several of her longtime friends, volunteered at her church, making countless quilts for disadvantaged children in the Magic Valley; not to mention the tons of clothing, quilts and essentials shipped out for disaster relief all over the world. Throughout her life, Barbara served in many capacities within her church, enjoying her roles in the children’s divisions, wedding coordinating, deaconess, social committee, school board and Pathfinders. To those who knew her briefly or for decades, her impression was the same; it was one of warmth, and kindness. She had a servant’s heart, formed by her beloved Creator. We will miss her greatly and will strive to emulate her graceful qualities in our little corners of the world……. until we see her again. And we WILL see her again!