Barbara Ann Piper Garrity, age 75, of Richland, Washington, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 12, at the Hospice House in Kennewick, Washington. She was born Nov. 9, 1937 in Missoula, Montana to Raymond and Helen Piper. She grew up in Anaconda, Montana, where she graduated from Anaconda High School as co-Valedictorian in 1956. She married Ben H. Garrity July 28, 1956, and they had five children: Benjamin, Randolf, William, Melissa and Melanie.

In 1962 Barbara and Ben moved to Richland. After the children were of school age, Barbara worked at various jobs, retiring in 1995.

Barbara loved being with family, camping, playing games, and spending time at the Oregon beach. She was an avid reader, and there was no subject she didn't know a lot about. Her courage, strength and faith led her to raise a strong, loving family – none of us would be who we are without her love, guidance and wisdom.

Barbara is survived by her husband of 56 years, Ben H. Garrity; her children Ben R. Berta Garrity and Bill Debbie Garrity of Richland, WA, and Randy Garrity of Tigard, OR, Melissa Steve Montgomery and Melanie Ken Bower of Kennewick, WA; and her brother Harry Margie Piper of Anaconda, MT. She also leaves four grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and two nephews.

Barbara was preceded in death by her father Raymond Piper of Anaconda, MT; mother Helen Bailey of Philipsburg, MT, and her stepfather Sid Bailey of Philipsburg, MT.

There will be a Rosary at 10:00 followed by a funeral Mass at 11:00 on Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2012, at Christ the King Church in Richland.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice at the Chaplaincy, 1480 Fowler Street, Richland, WA 99352.