Mary Frances Barber

1946 - 2024

Mary Frances Barber, a woman of remarkable beauty, inner strength and boundless compassion, passed away peacefully on the afternoon of March 4th, 2024, at Bethany House, with loved ones by her side, after bravely battling a long respiratory illness.

Born on April 15th, 1946 in Auburn Alabama, Mary Frances lived a life characterized by love, wit, creativity, generosity, and a deep emotional sensitivity. She was a shining example of selflessness, always putting the needs of others before her own. Her devotion to her family was unwavering, and she was devoted to her loving and loyal husband of 56 years, James "Jim" Bernard Barber. She is survived in life by Jim, her daughters Mary Brooke Barber of Auburn, AL and Meredith Leigh Gugel, her son-in-law Kraig Gugel and her grandsons Roger James Gugel and Bradley Michael Gugel of Houston, Texas whom she loved all with a fierce and tender affection.

Mary Frances possessed a creative spirit, finding joy in artistic expression such as painting, sketching, crocheting and quilting. Her artistic talents were only matched by her warmth and empathy, making her an exceptional friend and confidante. She had a remarkable ability to listen and offer comfort, endearing herself to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She found immense joy and fulfillment in her involvement with Auburn United Methodist Church. From singing in the choir to leading Sunday school classes and organizing church events, Mary Frances's dedication to her church community was a testament to her love for others.

Throughout her life's journey, Mary Frances had the opportunity to experience life in different part of the country living in Florida, Georgia, New Jersey, Texas, Colorado, California, and finally returning to her roots in Alabama, where she was born to her loving parents, Ida Byrd Wear and John Ingram Wear. She shared a special bond with her parents and her brother John Michael Wear, who all preceded her in death.

Mary Frances leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and compassion that will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and her closest friend since the fifth grade, Betty Love Corbin, whose friendship brought her both companionship and a treasured link to her past.

In honoring Mary Frances's memory, we will celebrate the beauty of her life and the love she shared with all who knew her. Though she may be physically gone, her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched, guiding and comforting them in the days ahead. The lessons in love, empathy and compassion will live through her husband, daughters and her grandsons as her legacy.

A memorial service will be held in the Auburn UMC Chapel on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 3:00PM with visitation immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Bethany House / Hospice. They are a wonderful organization who took the greatest care of Mary Frances: https://www.compassus.com/hospice-angels/

Rest peacefully, dear Mary Frances, knowing that your love will forever be cherished and remembered.