Barbara Jo Librande, 63 | Coeur d’Alene Press

Barbara Jo Librande of Hayden, Idaho, passed peacefully July 17, 2022, in Kootenai Health surrounded by family and friends.

She was born, Barbara Jo Mackey, in Spokane, Wash., on July 2, 1959, to loving parents Margaret Ann Sherman and Leroy Allen Mackey. Barbara was the second child of five — four girls and one boy. Her eldest sister, named Debi Mackey, followed by Gail Otto, Karen Collins and Justin Moore.

Barbara was always free-spirited, she carried compassion and empathy inside her heart. An abundance of unconditional love that she was determined to share; as well as a deep desire to help those in need.

In her college years, Barbara sought to obtain her bachelor’s degree in science, as a social work major from the University of Mary, in Bismarck, N.D., which she completed. As well as a criminal justice minor. After graduating, Barbara formed her own business named “Social Advocates” where she fought for the rights of her clients, advocating for the underserved, to which she devoted her professional career.

Aside from her career, her family meant everything to her. To know Barbara, one would have to consider themselves lucky. Her energy was contagious and Barbara was known for her selflessness. She always loved having a cat or two around. In her later years, she married John Librande, the two of them loved each other deeply, and unconditionally, and shared a beautiful family together in her retirement.

Barbara loved seeing her grandchildren and spending time with them, spoiling them with gifts and all the things a loving grandmother does.

Barbara also loved listening to music, going on drives to do so. Barbara kept up with everything in the music world, news and politics, as well as new TV series — she kept up with it all!

She is loved and will be missed dearly. Never to leave our hearts, or minds. Thankful for the footprint you have left on our lives.

Barbara is survived by the love of her life, John Librande; as well as her children, Camille Lang, Ryan Mackey and Taylor Bethke; two grandkids who she raised the last six years, Bailey Fagerland and Riley Fagerland; and her stepchildren, Jason Librande, Josh Librande, Candice Walton and Crystal Mottern; as well as a multitude of other grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other various family.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Please visit Barbara’s online memorial and sign her guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.