Barbara Gibbs

LAYTON – Barbara Lee Olson Gibbs, 81, peacefully returned to the loving arms of her husband on January 25, 2018.

She was born October 25, 1936 to Heber James Olson and Blanche Olson, in Pocatello, Idaho, and grew up learning to work hard in the farmland of Arimo, Idaho. Early on she showed her talent for nurturing by caring for her four younger siblings. In 1956, she married William Floyd Gibbs and they began a journey that included studying at Utah State University, working in the healthcare industry and as an executive assistant in Michigan, Texas, and Ohio, with her most recent being at Champion Hills in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina before retiring in Layton.

Barbara had a love for learning, writing, and reading, which she instilled in her children and grandchildren. She was hardworking and someone who was known to love the Lord and fulfilled her responsibilities to the best of her abilities. She loved cooking, traveling, flowers, and decorating her home. She was a doer and a creator, always able to make the best of her many moves around the country. She enjoyed trips to the beach, drives through the beautiful fall colors, exploring new recipes, fine art, and culture. She found joy in learning new things, from the history of the city of St. Joseph, Michigan to the culinary traditions of the South. A devoted grandmother who loved spending time with her grandchildren, she was the example of a life well lived in the service of those around her and many lives were brightened because of her influence. She was a valiant Latter-day Saint who served several missions and held many other leadership positions. Her quick wit, caring heart, and genuine concern for others will be missed.

Her legacy includes her children: Janice (Dan) Horschel of Albuquerque, NM; Ken (Darsi) of Pocatello, ID; Gerald of Albuquerque, NM; Ron (Carol) of Greenwood Village, CO; Suzanne (Troy) Taylor of Layton; Sharon (Steve) Tillett of Portland, OR; 17 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; her sister, Virginia Olsen, and brothers Earl Olson (Roberta), Grant Olson (Gail), Spencer (Shara), and Harold Olson (Lannie).

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, January 30, 2018 at 11 a.m. at the Valley View Stake Center, 1589 East Gentile, Layton, Utah. Friends may visit family Tuesday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the church. Interment will be at the Norton Cemetery in McCammon, Idaho.

The family wishes to thank Nora Wendel, Jessica Robinson and Tiffany Arbogast of Symbii Home Health, and the staff at Fairfield Village for their loving care.