Barbara Mattison-Tonkin died peacefully on January 8, 2025 at the age of 96 in Eagle, Idaho.
Born on June 27, 1928 in Arizona to Glen & Ruby Smith, she was the oldest of three children. Barbara lived in many places over the course of her life, including Boise, where she happily spent her final years nearby friends and family. She especially enjoyed having her sister Marian and brother Glen (deceased) close by in southern Idaho.
Barbara attended Boise Junior College, later she graduated from the University of Washington. Following graduation Barbara worked briefly as an elementary school teacher. Later she earned her master’s degree and returned to work as a special education teacher. She faithfully served young students with special needs in Florence, Oregon until she retired in 1995.
She raised five children with her first husband Jack Mattison, who died in 1984. She is survived by three of her children: Brad, Mark and Marta, as well as five grandchildren. Her sons Mitch and Jon passed away in 2008 and 2012 respectively. Barbara was a loving and generous mother, persevering through the challenges of parenting while encouraging creativity and independence in her children.
She found love a second time around with a long-time high school friend, Bill Tonkin. They were married in 1998 and spent many years traveling and enjoying the outdoors together. Bill lovingly cared for Barbara in her declining years, allowing her to remain at home until they both moved into assisted living in December of 2022. They continued to enjoy time together until Bill passed in November of 2024.
Barbara loved the Lord and steadfastly participated in the church throughout her adult life. She enjoyed a long and active life and is now at peace with her creator. She will be laid to rest in Florence, Oregon, one of the beautiful places she worked and lived for many years.