Barbara Ann Bry Johnson passed away at the age of 82 on October 13th, 2023, in the early hours of the morning surrounded by loved ones at home. She lived a full life filled with love from many family and friends, and was loved as deeply by her children, grandchildren, and husband. On June 25th, 1941, she was born in Grand Forks, ND to Edwin and Nellie (Kittleson) Bry.
From an early age, she had an amazing personality that lit up the room when she entered it. As a child, she learned piano and focused that talent at the age of fifteen as an organist for her church. Throughout her life she was an organist for the Lutheran and Presbyterian faiths. In college, she earned a teaching degree and taught in public schools for 42 years. Thirty of those years were at the Saratoga Elementary School in Saratoga, WY where she eventually retired. She loved teaching music to children throughout her life and missed it long after retirement. She also taught piano lessons to many students throughout her life.
After retirement, Barbara started a prayer shawl knitting group. Eventually moving to Alabama, Barb continued to enjoy spending time with family, friends, and many furry companions. Even at 82, her wit, sense of humor, and compassion was felt by all around her.
On October 27th, 2023, Barbara's son David Klein joined her in the afterlife after losing his battle to advanced and aggressive pancreatic and liver cancer. He loved her immensely and did his best to spend time with her in the end while he could. While their family grieves both their losses, solace is found in that both are together and no longer suffering.
Barbara is survived by her children Martha Klein of Elkmont, AL, Amy Klein-Wingate (Mark) of Cheyenne, WY, and daughter-in-law Sonia Klein (David) of Saratoga, WY; and grandchildren Darby Klein, Jessie Klein, John David Buttle, Adam Wingate, and Brian Wingate.
She is preceded by her parents Edwin and Nellie Bry; husband David Johnson and nine adoring siblings. Her loving son David Klein followed her two weeks later.
In lieu of flowers, her family asks that donations be made to the Saratoga Elementary School music program, in honor of her many years of teaching and her passion for music. Donations can be sent to Saratoga Elementary School, c/o Tammy Lincoln, P.O. Box 1590, Saratoga, WY 82331.
A memorial service to celebrate Barbara's life will be held in Saratoga, WY sometime in the future. Family and friends will be invited to join in remembering a life well-lived.
Barbara brought joy, warmth, and music to the lives of those around her and will forever remain in our hearts.
Reader Comments(0)