Barbara Lenore Cossairt, 86

Barbara was born to Archie “Fudd” and Netta Turner on February 14, 1938. Dr. Bowles parked at the top of Turner Hill and walked down to the family cabin during a snowstorm to deliver her. The cabin still stands near the bottom of Turner Hill. She shared stories of growing up with four older brothers, and how they lovingly picked on her.

She passed away on May 8, 2024, after suffering with dementia.

Barbara attended school in Boundary County, graduating from Bonners Ferry High School in 1956. 

On July 1, 1956, she married Kay Cossairt in Kay’s aunt Mildred’s yard on the Northside, not far from where they made their home for the last 50-plus years. She loved to tease Kay “the only reason she agreed to go out with him” was the red 1950 Oldsmobile convertible he was driving at the time. They were married for 67 years, with Kay caring for her as her dementia progressed. He displayed an incredible amount of patience with her, filling in the blanks when she could no longer find the right words.

Barbara is survived by Kay; Marie (Tom) Sumpter, Bonners Ferry; Kent Cossairt, Bead Lake, Wash.; Mark (Dianna) Cossairt, Bonners Ferry; Sue Anne (Brad) Dockins, Maryville, Tenn. She was the proud grandmother of 13 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Burton, Bryan, Ray, Ron; great-grandson Ivy and great-great-granddaughter Delilah. 

Barbara was an amazing seamstress, who made costumes for the kids, and prom, bridesmaids, and wedding dresses. She owned and operated Sew & Sew Shop from their home until she decided she liked to quilt better than doing upholstery. Her hand-quilted creations are treasured by anyone lucky enough to have received one. She was also employed by Bonners Ferry Post Company and North Water Association, as secretary. 

Barbara and Kay traveled south for the winter for most of the last two to three decades, enjoying time with friends and family in the desert. She liked to play cards, camp with family, and visit over coffee with dear friends. She had a warm smile and a sparkle in her eyes when she laughed, which was often. 

A gathering will take place at a later date. To leave a message or memory for the family go to www.bonnersferryfuneralhome.com. Bonners Ferry Funeral Home is caring for the family.