Barbara Childs

It is with broken hearts we announce the passing of our beloved mom, Barbara Childs

Mom passed away, peacefully, at the age of 89, the morning of March 21, 2023 in Magrath AB.

Mom leaves to mourn daughters, Gerry (Stan Jackson), Freda (Kieth Still), and Vickie (Don Mackey, predeceased); 8 grandchildren (and grand-in-laws); 23 great grandchildren, 3 sisters; numerous nieces and nephews, relatives and many good friends.

Mom was predeceased by her first husband, Fred Norton in 1954; second husband, Jim Childs in 1986 and son-in-law Don Mackey in 1992.

Barbara Jean Starkey was born in Walsall, England on August 1, 1933 to Gerald and Doris Starkey. After the passing of Gerald, Grams (Doris) along with her children, Barbara, Margaret, Doris and Christine set sail for Canada in 1947. Mom made sure that she and her sisters (except Christine whom they put to sleep early) explored every corner of the ship as they made their way to their new adventure. They made their way west to the Debolt area in northern Alberta. Mom moved to Bezanson when she married Fred. After Fred’s passing, mom moved her 2 daughters, Gerry and Freda, and HOUSE to Grande Prairie.  In 1957 mom married Jim and daughter #3, Vickie, was added.  Mom lived in the same house for 70 years until she moved to Magrath last year.

Mom was a great and loyal friend to many, working and serving in her community.  She holds very special her service as a lifetime member and executive of The Royal Purple.  Mom was a member of the Legion and was so proud to be the volunteer photographer for the new born babies at the QEII Hospital in Grande Prairie. Always one to reach out when neighbors, friends and family needed her.  Mom leaves a legacy of goodness.  For the past 20 years her hobbies, crafts and baking were found at many craft sales.

Grandma/Nana will always hold a special place in the hearts of each of her grand and great grandchildren or “scallywags” as mom called them.  Such special memories and many knitted sweaters and crafts made with love. You could always plan on  a card and a phone call on your birthday.

Our family is heartbroken with the loss of our dear Mom.  Mom’s love was constant in our lives.  We wished her time with us could have been prolonged but as she continues on her eternal journey we say: We love you forever mom and “till we meet again”.

With much gratitude we express thanks to Dr Kyle Bourne, the wonderful LPNs and staff at the Garden Vista (Good Samaritans of Magrath) and Karen Van Hill and Rob King of Home Care.  Thank you for the loving care you gave to our mom.

At mom’s request, cremation has taken place.  A celebration of life will be held in Magrath Saturday April 15 at 1 pm at the Garden Place Chapel 170 N Center Steet.  Another celebration of life will be held in Grande Prairie this summer, date to be announced.

Mom LOVED flowers but in lieu of flowers she would love donations be made to the Elks & Royal Purple Fund for Children.  (Mom’s granddaughter received her first hearing aide through this fund)

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara Childs, please visit our floral store.