Mary Marie Barnes: 1932 - 2025
Mary Marie Barnes (Atteberry), aka Mary Marie to those whom loved her most, was born April 9, 1932 in Young, Saskatchewan to Mary Hogan and LeRoy Atteberry.
Mary died following a brief illness at Pasqua Hospital in Regina, SK., on February 26, 2025, leaving a substantial loss in the lives of those who loved and cared for her.
Mary had an unbreakable and admirable bond with her sister, Margaret, throughout their lives. Neither time nor distance would keep them apart, nor from being each other’s boldest cheerleaders and advocates.
Mary and George were married in Sidney, Montana on August 6, 1960. Their elopement is just one example of Mary’s ever-present rebellious spirit and mischievous nature, which emerged as required, and was not limited to her love of bright red nail polish, her not-so-secret chocolate bar stash, and whispering anything she would not want God to hear.
Mary was a devout Christian, whom enjoyed attending bible study, church twice a week, as well as reading scripture aloud for others, and to herself. She was a proud and attentive mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and aunt who demonstrated love, commitment, dedication, and concern for her family. She was a loyal and caring friend. She appreciated and valued her friends, whom she treated like family. Mary never met a stranger. She was very social and loved chatting with others on the phone, in person over tea, in the halls of Tatagwa View, or on the streets of Weyburn, as opportunity would present itself.
Although incredibly gentle and kind-hearted, she could deliver an impressive “dressing down” when she felt it was necessary, and often, when others least expected. Mary did not have a high tolerance for sass, and would often use the opportunity to inform the offending party of her opinions, including but not limited to their misled political views and/or alliances. She would frequently amuse friends and family with her witty one liners, and unanticipated formidable opinions, such as her distaste for cigarette smoking, lasagna, losing at any game, the habitually postponed delivery of her daily Leader Post, or if COVID-19 or any other matter delayed her regularly scheduled hair appointment with hairdresser and friend, Brenda Frederick.
Mary loved wearing glamorous rings, the colour red, anything related to Queen Elizabeth II, spending time with animals (especially cats and dogs), chatting on the phone, and in days gone by, telling others jokes to brighten their day. She was resolute in her role as President of the Resident Council, in completing daily word-find’s, perusing magazines and newspapers to keep up with current events, as well as treating herself to nanaimo bars and popcorn twists. Although she was an enthusiastic fan of the Saskatchewan Roughriders, in the last few years she decided to take a hiatus from watching their games, as she would get too excited and told us it was too hard on her heart. She was fond of singing and enjoyed listening to music - both live, and on her Sirius radio. She had a fierce competitive (and stubborn) streak, and was committed to winning (every time) at bingo, bowling, or any other games she would engage in, carrying numerous good luck charms she had collected in her pocket with her to activities around the home. Mary was reliable and consistent, often calling to remind family to turn to channel 5 for the news or to watch the minister on Sunday, even though most of us didn’t have that channel. Her bear hugs, infectious giggle, loving nature, resilient spirit, and zealous commitment to advocacy for others is cherished, and will be so missed.
Mary was predeceased by her husband, George, loving sister, Margaret Blackburn, younger brother, Elroy Atteberry, parents Mary and LeRoy, as well as numerous older half siblings throughout BC, SK and parts of the USA, as well as many good friends.
Left to mourn Mary Marie and tell her stories are her children: son Robert Barnes, and daughter Betty (Randy) Phillips, her grandchildren: Rachelle (Jamie), Taylor (Victoria), and Brayden (Hazel), great grandchildren: Will, Milo and Vada, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Chosen family Ingri Roman and Marge Clauson, as well as best friends Marlene and Colleen, whom were great supports to Mary throughout her time at Tatagwa View.
Mary’s family extends endless gratitude and thanks to the staff at Tatagwa View. You were so much more to her than solely her caregivers. You invited her into your daily lives, stopping by on a day off (and bringing your children and pets to visit), showering her with extra love, photos, cards, gifts, and most importantly, your time. To Brenda, Tanya, and Marnell: she loved and looked forward to your visits, and the pampering you provided her with.
Gratitude to Weyburn General Hospital for the care provided, especially over the last year as her visits were more frequent with her declining health.
And to the Pasqua Hospital (ICU and Palliative Care) for their dedication and efforts to provide Mary with the best care.
Those wishing to honour Mary’s memory may make a donation in her name to TeleMiracle, the new Weyburn Hospital, or complete an act of kindness for another to brighten their day: call a loved one, arrange for tea with a friend, or deliver a well-timed joke.
In keeping with Mary’s wishes there will be no formal service. While we will remember her privately, her wish was that you keep her memory in your hearts.
A memorial tea in celebration of Mary’s life for both residents and staff of Tatagwa View will be held at a later date.
Hall Funeral Services in Estevan is caring for Mary’s family – Dustin Hall, Funeral Director.
