Obituary: Syble Barney

Syble Lorain (Williams) Barney, 87, passed away on July 23, 2012, at the Walbridge Wing in Meeker, Colo.
Syble was born at home in Naples, Utah, on April 24, 1925, to Harold and Evelyn Williams. She lived much of her young life around the Vernal area, after some time her parents moved to the White River between Rangely and Meeker, Colo., where she attended school.
When she was about 17 she met a handsome young man by the name of John Barney, who owned a ranch near Rangley, Colo., with his brothers. Their love blossomed by mail. The mailman picked a letter up from one of them and delivered it, then he returned the response in the evening on his way back. Hearts grew fonder and John finally proposed and they were married. That union lasted almost 62 years, and was blessed by the birth of six children.
Syble loved being a mother first, but had to juggle that love along with her church duties, tending a garden, milking cows, riding, haying, cooking for her husband and several hired men. Her work was never done.
The family moved several times, each time Syble making the new place a home. The last move was to Flag Creek south of Meeker.
She was very involved with all of her children and supported them thoughout their lives. She was a well-respected, active member of the community, participating in many clubs and associations, like Cowbelles, the historical society, Range Call, 4-H and the Meeker Massacre Pageant. She was the 4th of July parade grand marshal several times and was instrumental in acquiring the historic garrison building. Doing all these things while helping John and the kids take care of the ranches and cattle they owned.
Syble didn’t work away from home until her children were grown. Then she enjoyed several different jobs in town. She had a catering business with her daughter Debra and helped in a framing shop with daughter Kay. For a time she worked at the hospital in the food services and was a kitchen supervisor for the Fairfield Center. She also poisoned ground squirrels for the county.
She held many positions in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was Relief Society president, a Sunday school and primary teacher. Her devotion to the church was well known.
She was very giving, and when she cooked for her family, especially her wonderful bread, she’d make extra to give to those in need. If there was a new baby, an illness in the community, she was there, giving out of the goodness of her heart. She loved to quilt and sew, and many have those beautiful quilts made from her loving hands.
Syble was hard working, caring and passionate in what she believed. She loved to travel and learn new things. She encouraged all around her to do the same.
Syble loved her family and was often seen towing a grandchild along, driving them here and there. She enjoyed cooking big meals and made you feel so welcome. She canned a lot of fruit and baked most things from scratch. She wasn’t just a mom and wife, she was a true friend. She was someone you could rely on, and call when you were in need.
Her husband John passed away in 2004. Syble was able to live in their home on Flag Creek with the loving help of her family and friends until almost three years ago. Then she spent her last years in the wonderful care of the Walbridge Wing at Pioneers Hospital. There her family could visit and enjoy her still.
Syble was preceded in death by both parents, sister Glenda Richardson, husband John R. Barney, and son Lynn of Loveland, Colo. Survivors include Kay (Bob) Bivens of Meeker, (Myrna) Barney, of Loveland, Colo., Phyllis (Bill) Lake of Meeker, Beverly (Bob] Moss of Loomis, Calif., Debra Barney of Meeker, Shane (Bonnie) Barney of Sheridan, Wyo., brother Hoyt Glade Williams (Joyce) of Grand Junction and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
She is gone but not forgotten … her memory will go on … we will miss her every day … Grant Mortuary was in charge of the arrangements. The funeral was held July 28 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with Aaron Woodward officiating. Syble was laid to rest at the Highland Cemetery in Meeker. The family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to the staff at the Walbridge Wing, the community one and all, for the love and care of our mom. Memorial contributions may be made to the Rio Blanco County Historical Society.