Barbara Anne Matley

Barbara Anne Matley, 91, of Fall City, WA, went to her heavenly home on September 11, 2023.  She passed away peacefully at home with family by her side.  She was born on July 16, 1932, in Monterey, California, to Walter Vierra and Norma Carmichael. Barbara was preceded in death by her father, mother, and brother, Mike Vierra.  

Barbara was sick for much of her childhood with asthma, spending weeks at a time in the hospital with only weekend visits from her parents.  She was absent from school because of this and didn’t have the chance to graduate from high school.  But you wouldn’t know this about her because she held a thirst for knowledge and took it upon herself to learn.   

Wayne and Barbara moved to Enumclaw in 1981 after a visit with Wayne's brother, Lauren.  They loved the weather, the mountain, and the feeling of Enumclaw.  Known for her fabulous cooking and gracious hospitality, Barbara loved to host get-togethers for family and friends.  She was constantly testing out new recipes on guests and while this mostly was successful, there were some that were not!  She was also on the leading edge of testing gluten-free recipes for a local author. Christmas was her favorite time of year to be with family.  She had a talent for finding gifts for people that were meaningful and somehow fit that person perfectly.  She would sit back and share the joy of each gift opened, whether from her and Wayne or someone else.  
 
Barbara was a devoted member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Enumclaw, WA, where she found solace and community. She cherished her faith and the values it instilled in her. She was a strong woman who faced every challenge in her life with courage and dignity.  
  
In her free time, Barbara enjoyed various hobbies including reading, cooking, sewing, and shopping. She was fondly known as the “Shopping Grandma” to her grandchildren.  Traveling to Maui where she and Wayne would vacation for weeks at a time, was an annual trip they did for many years. The islands held a special place in her heart as that is where they honeymooned fifty-six years ago.   

  
Barbara is survived by her loving husband, Wayne Matley, and their children: Pamela Sheldon, Greg Matley, Jerry Shook, Maureen Furman, Carol Shook, Kathleen Matley, Theodore Matley, and Cindy Conlon. In addition, Barbara leaves behind 18 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many long-time friends who loved her, laughed with her, traveled with her, and supported her. 

Family was the thing Barbara cherished most and she looked forward to their visits.  She was the matriarch of the family and played a huge part in bringing the family together and strengthening family bonds.  Barbara will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her. Her warm presence, kind heart, and unwavering love will forever be remembered.

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