Barbara Ann Mathews Garusi's Obituary
Barbara was born in Waxahachie Texas on March 23, 1938 where she lived with her parents, John and Lula Mathews. She was the youngest of 3 children and had two brothers, Dwayne and J.W.Her parents came to La Mesa, Ca where she was raised. Barbara considered herself a native of California. On May 22, 1955 she married Jim Messinger in Aiken South Carolina as Jim was in the service. They raised 3 children together, Ronnie, Jimmey (J.R.) Cathy and Cynthia. Cynthia passed away shortly after birth. Jim’s trade relocated the family to Arizona, where Barbara remained a devoted homemaker and Mother. When the children were older, she began working in the food service industry and in the late 80’s Barbara moved back to California continuing her career in the food industry.In 2001 Barbara suffered the loss of her youngest son, J.R., who was tragically killed in an automobile accident. In about 1999 Barbara began living with her Granddaughter Staci, Staci’s husband and her two Grandsons, Brennan and Trevor. She continued working until 2008, but mostly she loved helping out around the house and being around her Grandchildren. Barbara was known as the PTA Grandma and she helped out at many school functions. Everyone loved Grandma.Barbara loved going to Las Vegas to visit her son Ronnie and his family and while there, she couldn’t resist hearing the “ching, ching ching” sound and pulling the handle on the slots. In 2000 while playing on a nickel slot at Viejas, Barbara hit the jackpot, winning the jackpot and a Fat Harley Davidson motorcycle.Barbara remained active and independent throughout her life, however in January of 2018 her health began to decline and on May 29, 2018 Barbara passed away peacefully in her home with her daughter and granddaughter nearby. She will forever be missed. If we had to describe Barbara to someone, we would tell them that she is hardworking, devoted (to her family), compassionate, loving and caring. Barbara is survived by her 2 children, Ron and Cathy her 8 grandchildren, Staci, Michael, Brandy, Robert, Wendy, Cody, Cori and Brett, and her 7 Great Grandchildren Brennan, Trevor, Bailey, Joseph, Scarlett, Lexi and Anthony.We love you Mom/Grams, you will forever be in our hearts. Click on SERVICE DETAILS to learn more about her services.
What’s your fondest memory of Barbara?
What’s a lesson you learned from Barbara?
Share a story where Barbara's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Barbara you’ll never forget.
How did Barbara make you smile?