L. Carolyn (Handley) Barney Obituary (1936 - 2024)

Carolyn Handley Barney The world lost some of its sparkle this June when Carolyn Handley Barney passed away. Carolyn lived a full 87-year life filled with love, family and friendship. She was a creative, irreverent and fun person whose infectious smile, big personality and wondrous laugh brought joy to everyone around her. Carolyn spent the last year of her life embracing every moment at Mountain Ridge Assisted Living in South Ogden with the help of its kind staff along with Inspiration Hospice. She had a wonderful experience and her days were filled with activities and daily visits from friends and family. Whether it was relaxing with Chair Chi, playing bingo or simply hanging in the hall with her buddies, Carolyn really loved her life there. She made great friends and truly enjoyed each day. Carolyn was married to Al, the love of her life, for 46 years. Their chance meeting in his fish and chip shop turned into an amazing relationship that burned brightly even after his passing in 2014. He adored his “redhead,” and she loved her “cowboy.” They were the best of friends throughout their long devoted marriage. They built a life in Ogden blending together two families. Carolyn brought two children; Al added an additional four. Later, they welcomed a daughter of their own. Carolyn frequently said, “Having a daughter was the best thing she ever did for herself.” She loved being a mom and did her best to be supportive and caring to all of her children. Much of Carolyn’s free time was spent with her daughter and son-in-law. She was involved in all parts of their family life and became an integral in every way. Whether it was something as simple as a visit to the store or an adventurous vacation, she was always included. Carolyn adored her two granddaughters and being their “Grammy.” From the moment they were born, she spent as much time with them as possible. She even followed them to live in France. She was their biggest fan, helping shepherd them through life. She never missed a music performance, sports activity or big event. She wanted to be there for everything! When both married, she was delighted to gain two additional grandchildren. Carolyn was a well-respected and beloved teacher in the Ogden City Schools District for over 40 years. Teaching fifth grade at Wasatch Elementary, she left a lasting impression on the over 800 children whom she taught. A walk around Ogden would frequently yield a cheerful call of “Mrs. Barney!” from a former student or parent who would reminisce about how she made such a difference in their lives. During her teaching career, she developed most of her dearest friends which she maintained for decades. She cherished and fostered these friendships and always kept in close contact. This was one of the many remarkable things about Carolyn. She enjoyed lots of hobbies during her lifetime. Whether it was dancing, needlework or scrapbooking, Carolyn always put passion into her latest activity. As she was learning and exploring each, she made many additional friends along the way. While she might move on from one hobby to another, she never abandoned the friendships she created. Carolyn grew up in Ogden with her parents, two brothers and her beloved sister. Though ten years difference in age, Carolyn always sought her sister’s company. When her friends would ask, “Do you have to take your sister along?” she’d firmly respond, “I don’t have to, I get to!” Carolyn adored being a big sister and they stayed close throughout her life. She also had a ball hanging out with her sister-in-law and playing cards. Carolyn loved being included in her extended family. She was a loving aunt who embraced and adored all her nieces and nephews. If a family party was happening, Carolyn would hold court, learn about their lives, impart her wisdom and celebrate their successes! Carolyn had a lifetime of bold adventure. She was an innovator and was never afraid of new things. She was always the first person to buy new technology, taste new foods and welcome new ideas. She was unashamed to experience anything, big or small. She was a fierce person who was always trying to learn. She was a wealth of information, never shied away from voicing her opinion and was always a force for positivity. You cannot sum up a life in any amount of words, but Carolyn truly sparkled. She shared her laughter and love freely with those around her. She was bold, powerful and intelligent. She wasn’t afraid to be authentic. Even her appearance shined. A ring would adorn every finger and she dressed in vibrant and bright colors. But that was Carolyn, she loved beauty. Whether it was an adorable miniature tea set, a beautiful porcelain figurine or a magnificent piece of jewelry, her face would light up when she discovered a new treasure. She loved clouds, mountains and fields of flowers and she found pure joy and happiness whenever she saw something lovely in nature. Carolyn evoked beauty inside and out. In lieu of flowers, a Weber State University scholarship fund has been created to honor her passion for learning, love of teaching and her generosity. If inclined, please help to us to celebrate her life and legacy by donating at http://give.weber.edu/carolynbarney