Barbara Lee Mefford Tacher, 81, passed away on June 7, 2026, at Deaconess Hospital in Spokane, Washington, from pneumonia related to her two-year battle with Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Barbara was born on September 1, 1944, in Bremerton, Washington, to Henry Clay Mefford and Marietha Irene Mefford. She grew up in Bremerton and graduated from West Bremerton High School with the Class of 1962. She then attended Western Washington State College (now Western Washington University) in Bellingham on a music scholarship for violin.

In 1962, Barbara met her future husband, Morrie, while attending college. His friends noticed her first and dated her a few times, but Barbara and Morrie eventually became acquainted through chance encounters between classes. They even shared the same seat in the same classroom for different classes scheduled one after another. Morrie often said it was love at first sight for him. As their relationship grew, they became engaged. Before their marriage, Morrie explained that he could not marry someone outside of his faith. Barbara agreed to meet with missionaries, and she was baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Barbara and Morrie were married on August 23, 1963, and on June 23, 1964, they were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. Barbara remained a faithful member of the Church throughout her life.

Barbara worked for approximately eight years in a flower shop in Marysville, Washington, where she learned floral design and developed a talent for creating beautiful arrangements. This became one of her favorite acts of service. She cultivated a stunning flower garden and regularly created arrangements for church each week. She often felt inspired to know who needed encouragement and would share her arrangements to brighten someone's day and lift their spirits.

Barbara was also a member of the Cabin Fever Quilt Guild of Stevens County. Quilting was one of her greatest passions. Over the years, she made hundreds of quilts for family, friends, and anyone she felt could benefit from her generosity. If you are fortunate enough to own one of Barb's quilts, consider it a treasured gift. Her journals reveal that she was making quilts for her children as early as 1980. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy stitched into every quilt she created.

An accomplished seamstress, Barbara sewed clothing for herself, wedding dresses for her daughters, and countless alterations and special projects. There seemed to be little she could not create with a needle and thread.

Barbara was also known for her beautiful violin playing. Music was one of her lifelong joys and talents. She performed with both the Cascade Symphony and the Everett Symphony for a combined total of more than 40 years. She also got to tour with them to Italy and even play at Carnegie Hall where after everyone was gone, she stepped out onto an empty stage in an empty theater and played Turkey in the Straw!

Of all her accomplishments, Barbara considered motherhood her greatest blessing and achievement. She dearly loved being the mother of six children, three sons and three daughters—and devoted her life to her family.

Barbara was preceded in death by one grandchild. She is survived by her devoted husband, Morris D. Tacher; her brother, Dennis Mefford; her children, David M. Tacher, Jennifer K. Thompson (Clarence "Ed"), Sara L. Riggs (Gilbert), Mark B. Tacher (Natalie), Rebecca M. Larsen, and Jeffrey C. Tacher (Kairsee); 16 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; and her beloved cat, Riley.

Barbara will be remembered for her unwavering faith, generous heart, musical gifts, creativity, and the love she shared with family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.

Her Celebration of Life will be held on June 26, 2026, at 11 am

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

2028 Steinmetz Rd

Chewelah, WA 99109

Following the celebration of life will be a luncheon for all who want to stay

Burial and Dedication of the grave – 3 pm following the luncheon

Woodland Cemetery

5315 W Monroe Rd

Deer Park WA 99006

If you would like to send flowers, please send them to the funeral Home closer to the funeral date

Lauer Funeral Home

N.204 Main

Deer Park WA 99006