It is impossible to relate in words the impact Barbara Jane Jamison Mehner had on her family, the community around her, and the world as a whole. She spread joy wherever she went, inspiring those around her with unconditional love and compassion. Whether it was in a doctor's office or at the local elementary school or at a church activity, Barbara Mehner's gentle and bright countenance served as a window to us all of our Savior Jesus Christ. In her forty seven years here on earth, she helped those who had the privilege to be in contact with her feel a little bit closer to heaven.
Barb graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor's degree in Humanities and a minor in Spanish. During her college years she served in humanitarian programs in Israel and Guatemala. She was married on August 15, 1980 in the Los Angeles Temple for time and all eternity to Glenn Robert Mehner. At church she served in several callings, including Young Women's president, Primary president, girl's camp director, and most recently, taught early morning seminary to teenagers. She was a devoted wife and remarkable mother to her four daughters, Brooke Marie, Shannon Elizabeth, Meredith Lynn, and Allyson Bren; teaching and inspiring through the love and passion she had for life and the gospel of Jesus Christ. She loved all of the arts, and founded Arroyo Vista Children's Theater nonprofit organization in order to help elementary school kids discover their inner potential for greatness. Through the 12 productions she directed, the last one while she was in the midst of rigorous chemotherapy, she touched a countless number of children's and parent's lives and taught us all to believe in our ?possibilities?.
Barb fought stage four Melanoma cancer valiantly for the past ten months and endured excruciating pain with dignity, compassion and love. Though she will be missed dearly by all those who had the privilege to know her, the pain is eased through the knowledge that her family will see her once again. ?These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.? John 16:33 We love Barb and thank the Lord for the precious years we shared with her.