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Iva Barber
Born: 9/19/1920
Died: 2/16/2025
Age: 104
Community: Columbiaville, MI
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Iva Abbey Smith Barber, lovingly known as Iva to her family and friends, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2025, at the grand age of 104. Born on September 19, 1920, in Columbiaville, Michigan, Iva's life was a testament to her enduring faith, love for her family, and her generous spirit.
Iva was the cherished matriarch of her family, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. She is survived by her devoted children: Deanna Smith Secord and Joan Smith Burd both of Columbiaville, MI; Rodney Barber of Otisville, MI; Mary Jane Barber Hittle (Philip) of Otter Lake, MI; and Deborah Barber Harman (Robert) of Greensboro, NC. Her lineage includes many grandchildren: Danny Burd, Jr (Sarah), Angela Burd Brunner (Bryan), Gregory Secord, Tina Barber Johnson (Jeff), Phillip Hittle, Melissa Hittle Homer (Rob), Melinda Hittle Theibert (Jay), Valerie Harman Greene (Jonah), Rainelle Barber (Scott), Randy Barber (Sherry), Brenda Barber, Carl David Nichols (Diane), Steven Nichols (Jay), Penny Nichols Ford (Larry), Russell Nichols, Ronnie Nichols (Terri), April Sell Hughes (Mike), Autumn Davis, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, who will carry forward her memory with fondness and pride. Iva was preceded in death by her husband, James Barber, whom she married in 1950, and her stepson, James Barber Jr. (Jean), and stepdaughter, Gracie Barber Nichols (Carl). She was the last surviving sibling of her family, joining her parents, Edward and Elizabeth Warren Abbey, brothers Lewis, Gilbert, an infant, Eddie, and sisters Lucille Abbey, Ethel Thompson, Grace Shell, Mina Papke in eternal rest. Her grandsons Andrew Hittle, Marcus Harman, and infants Casey Harman and Michael Harman, alongside her sons-in-law Dan Burd and Dave Secord, also preceded her in death.
A graduate of Columbiaville High School in 1939, Iva's dedication to her community was evident in her longstanding involvement with the Columbiaville Assembly of God. Since 1953, she served the church in various capacities, including teaching Sunday school, acting as Sunday school secretary, participating in church dramas, and engaging in many other areas of ministry. Her commitment to her faith was unwavering and served as a source of inspiration to all who knew her.
Iva's interests and talents were as diverse as they were rich. An avid reader, she found great joy in the pages of books, which were her companions through the quiet moments of life. Her hands, always busy, created beautiful crocheted pieces that became treasured keepsakes for her family and friends. Iva also had a passion for poetry, penning verses that reflected the depth of her emotions and the breadth of her experiences. Above all, Iva's greatest pleasure was found in the time she spent with her family, whom she loved deeply and selflessly.
Those who knew Iva would describe her as a loving, faith-filled, and selfless individual. Her warm presence and kind-hearted nature left an indelible mark on the hearts of those she encountered. Iva's life was a living example of her values, and she was a beacon of light and love in her community.
Funeral service 12:00 PM on Thursday, February 20, 2025 at Jansen Family Funeral Home – Columbiaville, where family and friends may visit 11:00 AM till time of service. Dr. Bob Harman and Pastor Dale Hollin officiating. Iva will be laid to rest next to her husband at Wood Lawn Cemetery in Columbiaville. Share memories, condolences, and pictures with the family at www.jansenfuneralhome.com. |
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2/20/2025 |
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11:00 AM |
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| Funeral Service |
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2/20/2025 |
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12:00 PM |
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Jansen Family Funeral Home
4705 Pine Sreet
Columbiaville, MI 48421Get a Map to this location...
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