Barbara L. Grady

Barbara L. Grady (née Freeman), 88, of Davenport, passed away peacefully on Wednesday December 20, 2023 at Clarissa Cook Hospice House.

Barb was born February 25,1935 in Ottumwa, IA, the daughter of Orman “Babe” and Olive Freeman. She attended Wartburg College in 1953-54 before marrying Gerald “Jerry” Grady on June 10, 1956, in Ottumwa, remaining happily married for 61 years until Jerry’s death in 2018. Barb and Jerry had three sons. After the youngest entered school full time, Barb returned to college, juggling her roles as student, wife and mother. She completed her degree in Education at Marycrest College, Davenport, IA, in May, 1972. She later obtained her master’s degree in August, 1979 from Western Illinois University. Barb’s first teaching job was at The Villa De’Chantel, an all girls school in Rock Island where she taught etiquette, decorum, cooking and sewing. She then taught home economics at Assumption High School from 1973-74 before joining the Davenport Community Schools, teaching home economics at Wood Junior High from 1975 until her retirement in 1993. Barb’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Davenport for almost 60 years, and she formed many deep and long lasting friendships there. She served on the Mutual and Eucharistic Ministry teams, Women’s Circle, Food Pantry and much more. She was a Stephen minister for over 20 years, bringing communion to those unable to attend church. She was also involved with the national Women’s Health Initiative for over 20 years. Barb enjoyed sewing, needlework, craft hobbies and cooking; she was a master of preparing and serving gourmet dinners. She enjoyed traveling with Jerry, visiting all 50 states, as well as Canada, Mexico and 11 countries abroad. Barb particularly enjoyed spending time with friends and family, always ready with stories and hugs.

Survivors include sons Mark (Sandy) of Fox Point, WI., Scott (Zandra) of Leesville, LA., and Todd (Julie) of Davenport; seven grandchildren, one great grandchild, a sister, Patty Trevor of Anaheim, CA., and a sister-in-law, Julie Freeman of Cedar Rapids, IA. Barb was predeceased by her husband Jerry and her brother Ken Freeman.

Memorial services will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 6, 2024 at Zion Lutheran Church, Davenport, with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. at the church. All are invited to a reception following the service.

Memorials are suggested to Zion Lutheran Church.