Encircle Heber
The Jennifer Barber Memorial Garden
Love Big, Spread Light, Bring your own Magic!
Written by Bailey Tibbitts on behalf of the Barber family
Jennifer Barber
Love big, spread light, bring your own magic—these are the words that Jennifer Barber lived by. Jennifer believed, taught, and lived the principle of love. She wanted everyone to be accepted and feel loved for being themselves. She was a fierce advocate for women, children, animals, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
For Jennifer, it starts with Love, Love Big! Jennifer wore her heart not on her sleeve but as her whole armor. She had the uncanny ability to see people not just as they were but as they wanted to be. She rejected the traditional boxes people are placed into–instead learning who they are, who they want to be, and loving them for that. Jennifer’s love was unconditional. Anyone fortunate enough to have felt that love can attest, it was given freely and was fierce.
Jennifer was incredibly creative and found ways to liven up every occasion. She had a gift for small personal touches that made individuals and groups, large or small, feel special. “Magic” to Jennifer meant personal connections and helping people feel special and unique in any situation.
Jennifer was an LGBTQ+ ally. Having her in your corner was like having an army. She loved marching in the Pride Parade, and she wanted everyone to know that they are loved as people. Jennifer always said, “Love people where they are.” That is what unconditional love is–love without pretext, subtext, qualifications, or limits.
Sara Turner and her mother, Jennifer Barber.
Jennifer was spreading light long before it became her profession. She lived with a smile on her face and the heart of a Disney princess. She would brighten every room with her personality, and trademarked pink wardrobe and glasses. She found an outlet to spread light with her daughter, Sara, when they created Pop Park City for countless celebrations. “Bring Your Own Magic” was more than just a statement, it was a way of life.
“My family grew close to Jen in the summer of 2016; she took great care of us during a difficult time. A few months after that, I was moving out to an apartment in Salt Lake with my girlfriend at the time, which wasn’t something I had been open about with most people. My community was predominantly LDS, and I hadn’t gotten a lot of support after coming out as a lesbian. In fact, I was ostracized by many people, even family friends. Jen cornered me while helping me move and said something I’ve thought about at least once a week since. She told me, “I don’t know your exact situation, but I need you to know that I love you, and I see you.”
Her words have stuck with me all these years and carried me through many difficult emotions. She made it a point to tell members of the LGBTQ+ community that she embraced that side of us. She loved us because of who we are, not in spite of who we are. Last October, I married my amazing wife, and I know Jen was there celebrating with us, probably wearing pink.
We lost Jennifer on July 7, 2022, in a tragic car accident. She left behind her husband, Geoffrey, daughter, Sara (husband, Teren), and sons, Nixon (wife, Grace) and Easton. She left a legacy of love, life, and growth that will live on in this garden. Find time in your day, every day, to Love Big, Spread Light, and never forget to Bring your own Magic!
Sara Turner and her mother, Jennifer Barber.
Follow us on Instagram for all of the latest.
