Barbara Lois (Harthan) Porter returned peacefully to her Heavenly Father on Dec. 24, 2014, at the age of 91 in the presence of her loving family.
Barbara was born Sept. 11, 1923, to caring parents Frederick W. and Effie (Weldy) Harthan in Albion, Penn. Growing up on their farm with her brothers, she gained a love for nature and all living creatures. Barbara graduated from Albion High School in 1942 and completed Erie Infant, Home and Hospital Nurse Training in 1943. She enjoyed working as a nurse and school teacher.
On Nov. 23, 1950, she married her sweetheart James H. Porter in Los Angeles, Calif. They were later sealed in the Los Angeles Temple. Together they raised five children: Martha (Bob) Britton, James (Crystal) Porter, Catherine Marie, Barbara (Art) Thomas, Frederick (Treasa) Porter.
Barbara was known for her kind and gentle nature and her love of children and animals. She has written children’s stories for her friends and grandchildren and was a generous supporter and lifelong advocate for nature, wildlife and animal charities. Barbara was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, serving in all areas of the church. She and James worked in the Los Angeles and Portland Oregon LDS Temples. Barbara enjoyed race walking in her 70s and by age 74 participated and completed several marathons. Her enthusiasm and active spirit was loved by all who met her.
She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers; infant twin daughters; and her husband. Barbara is survived by her five children, 24 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service was held to honor and remember her life at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 27, in the Houston LDS Chapel.bInterment will be near her husband, James H. Porter, in Finley-Sunset Hills Memorial Park in Portland, Ore. Local arrangements were under the direction of Evans Funeral Home.
PAID
