Barbara Wesley

Barbara Ann Dodson Wesley passed away peacefully at age 69 on March 23, 2023, surrounded by her family after a five-month battle with pancreatic cancer. She was born in July 1953, in Columbia, Mississippi to Russell (Mo) and Flora (Punk) Dodson.
Barbara's influence lives on through her husband, John, her two sons, and four grandchildren.
Barbara had a contagious, energetic zest for life, and was devoted from a very early age. She was heavily involved in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, earning her MIA Young Women's medallion with a lifetime of Christ-like service. In high school, she was elected student body president, played the flute in band, became a drum majorette, and even twirled a fire baton in front of thousands. Later, she coached a college cheerleading team. Music, fashion, home design, reading, painting, dancing, and cooking were also hobbies of hers. She attended Ricks, BYU, and finally Mississippi State where she fell in love and married her childhood neighbor, John, in the Salt Lake City Temple. They enjoyed southern Mississippi for decades until they migrated west to Utah to join so many of Barbara's family.
Barbara leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, perseverance, and friendship. She always met her neighbors with open arms and good-ole southern charm. Raised near New Orleans, Barbara's motto was "laissez le bon temps rouler" (French for "Let the good times roll"). She lived that motto and made sure every birthday and every season was celebrated to the fullest, often with an elegant meal or fantastic decorations. Her love and passion for the holidays was felt by all who were invited into her home (especially Halloween). Barbara shared her warmth with all by entertaining, chatting, and never hesitating to make new friends.
She was constantly serving others through church or community. Hundreds benefited from dancing and etiquette lessons taught by Barbara. She served in the PTA and supported 4H. She was always a teacher, a school booster, and worked in community programs. In church, Barbara was responsible for hundreds of activities, leading, and inspiring all ages from children and youth to young singles and adults.
Barbara was an avid traveler visiting 48 US states, sailing the Caribbean, climbing ancient ruins, enjoying famous bridges, and cruising highways all around the world. She once visited Disneyland and Disneyworld during the same week. Barbara never sat still for very long. She preferred to be always moving and planning her next adventure. She could be packed and ready to roll in minutes.
Barbara was the epitome of grit, strength, and determination. She didn't let her pancreatic cancer diagnosis slow her down or impede her desire to live a normal life. Even up to her last few days, she was attending parties, making jokes, smiling, and bringing joy to others.
Thank you, Mom. Grandma. Beloved wife. Friend. Thank you for teaching us to dance and enjoy life to the fullest!
UTAH Viewing
Friday, March 31st, 6:00-8:00 pm at Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Home 1007 W. South Jordan Pkwy (10600 So.), South Jordan, Utah
UTAH Funeral Services
Saturday, April 1st, at 11:00 am with a viewing prior from 10-10:30 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Welby North Chapel, 8385 S 4800 W, West Jordan, UT
MISSISSIPPI Viewing
Friday, April 14th, 6:00-8:00 pm at the Hathorn Funeral Home, 167 Old Hwy 98 E, Columbia, MS
MISSISSIPPI Funeral Services & Burial
Saturday, April 15th, 11:00 am with a viewing prior from 10-10:30 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Columbia Chapel 86 W Lakeview Dr, Columbia, MS