Brenda Marie Barber

Born June 17, 1940, in Biloxi, Mississippi, to James and Elise Balius, Brenda was a woman of incredible personality—brilliant, witty, strong-willed, independent, and sassy. She touched everyone she met with her infectious laughter, generosity, and zest for life. Known for her gift of bringing people together, whether strangers, friends, or family, Brenda made all feel welcome. Her presence made every moment more special, filled with countless trips, adventures, and shared experiences that will be remembered and celebrated by all whose lives she enriched. She inspired countless smiles, and her hugs will be deeply missed. Comfort comes in knowing her spirit lives on—in family gatherings, shared laughter, sage advice, and quiet recollections of her love.

In 1962, Brenda married Jimmie Meagher. Together they raised four children and built a successful pipe-fitting business along the Gulf Coast. They enjoyed traveling and spending time with family. In 1983, they sold the business and shortly thereafter moved to Colorado, a place they had long considered a second home. While there, they purchased and operated Electric Mountain Lodge, where they formed lasting friendships with people from across the country. In 2003, they sold the lodge and moved to Arkansas.

In 2005, Brenda lost her husband, Jimmie, to cancer. After a time of grief, she found love again and married Harold Barber, who shared her love of travel and family. Together they attended LSU games, proudly cheering on their team, and continued creating memories with those they loved.

Brenda lived a tremendous life—full of travel, laughter, and meaningful connections. She taught us always to have faith and often said, “Let us always meet with a smile, because a smile is the beginning of love.” In January 2017, Brenda faced every parent’s worst nightmare with the unexpected loss of her son, Lance. While her light dimmed after his passing, she continued forward with remarkable grace and unwavering faith.

Brenda made life richer simply by being in it. Her spirit remains a guiding light, and we honor her memory by living with the love, kindness, and integrity she so beautifully exemplified. Forever in our hearts.

Brenda was a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Franklin, Louisiana.

Brenda is survived by Harold Barber; her children and their spouses, Laura Wilken (Tad) of DeLand, Florida; Leighsa Floore of Mobile, Alabama; Leigh Minter (Klaus) of Rifle, Colorado; 12 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; numerous great-great-grandchildren; siblings; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Jimmie Meagher (September 2005); her son, Lance Meagher (January 2017); her parents; grandparents; and her brother, Sonny Balius (September 20, 2015).