Barbara Gale Abbey

Barbara Gale Abbey passed away peacefully on April 13, 2026, at the age of 79, just weeks shy of her 80th birthday.

Barbara was born on May 1, 1946, in Dayton, Washington, to Michael and Joyce Saxon. She began her education in Dayton before moving with her family to Waitsburg in 1955.

She attended local schools and graduated from Waitsburg High School with the Class of 1964.

On January 23, 1965, she married Robert William Abbey, and they welcomed their son, Donald Michael Abbey, in November 1966.

Barbara found her greatest joy in being a mother and grandmother. She dedicated herself to supporting Don throughout his childhood, seldom missing a game or special event. Her home was a warm and welcoming haven, not only for Don but also for his many friends, all of whom were welcomed with genuine kindness.

She delighted in her grandchildren, filling visits with love, laughter, fun activities, and root beer floats.

She worked for many years as an administrative assistant at the Green Giant Cannery in Waitsburg and also alongside her mother at Joyce's Gift Shop in downtown Waitsburg. Barbara was a member of St. Mark's Catholic Church, where she volunteered her time and participated in the Altar Society.

Barbara enjoyed a full and vibrant life, with hobbies that included gardening, bowling, and playing cards. She was a voracious reader, often reading two or three books a week. She especially loved traveling to Reno, Nevada, and visiting family in Spokane, Washington.

She is survived by her son, Donald Abbey, and her grandsons, Chandler and Elliot Abbey, all of San Diego, California; as well as her cousin, Sally Akiyama, and extended family in Spokane. She was preceded in death by her sister, Cathy Saxon (1966); her mother, Joyce Saxon (1998); her husband, Robert Abbey (1998); and her father, Michael Saxon (2001).

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

A private burial will be held at Waitsburg City Cemetery. A celebration of life reception will be announced later.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla, WA 99362. Friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at http://www.herringgroseclose.com.