Barbara Mardelle Jordan

Barbara Mardelle Jordan (Barrett) November 25, 1933 – October 21, 2024 Barbara Mardelle Jordan (Barrett), born November 25, 1933, in Spokane, Washington, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2024, in Spokane, surrounded by her loving family.

Born at Sacred Heart Hospital to parents Hazel Barnes (Cabbage) and Treves Barrett, Barbara’s life was marked by a deep sense of family, hard work, and a passion for learning and nurturing those around her. Barbara’s connection to the medical field began early, working as a candy striper at Sacred Heart Hospital. This experience, combined with her natural caregiving spirit, led her to proudly call herself “Dr. Mommy” throughout her life. At the young age of 18, she became a mother, starting a lifelong journey that would become her greatest source of pride. She often said that her greatest accomplishment was raising her six children: Jeanne Ryan (husband, John Ryan), Josephine Timacheff (husband, Serge Timacheff), Charles Breault (deceased), Michael Connor, Barbara Connor-McFrederick (husband, Mark McFrederick), and Matthew Connor (wife, Jennifer Connor). She was also a loving stepmother to Paul Connor (deceased) and Patou Vincent. Her family legacy extends further to 24 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and one more on the way, all of whom brought immense joy to her life.

Barbara’s life took her across the country, from Texas to New York, where she lived for many years. She was a skilled word processor at Sperry, a talented seamstress, and even owned her own business. After her family returned to her hometown of Spokane, she worked for a law firm and an insurance company as a word processor. During this time, Barbara also took classes at the local community college to enhance her clerical skills, further demonstrating her commitment to learning and improving her craft. A gifted gardener, Barbara was famous for growing the best tomatoes on Long Island, and her home was always filled with the scent of her delicious homemade bread and unmatched spaghetti sauce. Family gatherings around her spaghetti dinners were a beloved tradition that brought everyone together.

Barbara had an inquisitive mind and was always eager to learn, staying up to date with the latest developments in technology and trends. Her enthusiasm for knowledge was as boundless as her love for her family. Barbara will be remembered for her warmth, her wisdom, and her unwavering devotion to those she loved. Her legacy lives on through the large, loving family she nurtured and the countless lives she touched along the way.