Helen Ruth Archibald Barber

Helen Ruth Archibald Barber, 93, returned peacefully to her Heavenly Father on Saturday, April 19, 2025 surrounded by her family-whose lives were forever shaped by her love, warmth, and unwavering presence. She was born October 25, 1931, and raised in Saint Anthony, ID, by her loving parents Alexander Elmer and Ethel Kane Archibald. She attended Brigham Young University where she was active in the music program, and graduated in 1953 with a bachelor degree in education. Subsequently she taught in Saint Anthony, ID and then San Diego, CA. where she met her future husband. On December 17, 1954, she married Norman Raymond Barber, and the two were sealed in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple.

After Norman completed his studies at Utah State University, the couple settled in North Ogden, where he began his teaching career. Later, they purchased Cache Valley Vending and relocated to Cache Valley, where they operated the business side-by-side for nearly two decades while raising their seven children.

Helen was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in various Relief Society roles throughout her life. Together with Norman, she served a couple’s mission at the Salt Lake City Granite Mountain Records Vault, and the two also dedicated more than 12 years to the Logan Tabernacle Family History Center, helping patrons with genealogy work.

Helen devoted her life to her family as a stay-at-home mom, raising her children with compassion, patience, and grace. Her home was a place of comfort and endless love — a true reflection of her gentle spirit. A five-star homemaker, Helen had a gift for creating beauty and comfort in every corner of her home. She excelled in the home arts — from her impeccable décor and delicious home-cooked meals to her sewing, knitting, and craftwork that reflected both skill and heart.

Helen found joy in life’s quiet pleasures: tending to her vegetable and flower garden, curling up with a good book, and surrounding herself with the people she cherished most. Her kindness, attentiveness, and steady presence were a constant source of comfort and strength.

Helen loved her family with the ferocity of a mother bear — fiercely protective, endlessly supportive, and always present. She never missed a birthday or holiday, thoughtfully sending cards filled with love and handwritten warmth. Her phone calls came just to check in, to listen, and to remind her loved ones that she was always there.

Helen is survived by her husband, Norman; children, David (Dianna) Barber, of Logan, Kathleen (Steve) Cooke of Ogden, Patti (Larry) Wiser of Lewiston, Susan (Keith) James of Providence, Paul (Sheila) Barber of Providence, and Phil (Lisa) Barber of Pocatello; and 14 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by son Alan Michael Barber and her brother J. Leland Archibald.

A graveside service will take place on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 1:30 PM in the Logan City Cemetery.

We will always carry her memory in our hearts.

Memories and condolences may be shared and expressed at www.allenmortuaries.net.