Barbie was born on February 17, 1938 to Rev. Raymond and Esther Colas in Monessen, Pennsylvania. She was the youngest of four. Her Siblings were Patricia, Ralph, and Raymond Eugene.
After graduating from high school, she went on to study music at Philadelphia College of Bible. She was a marvelous pianist. She married Harold Rager on August 19, 1967. They had twins, Mark Adrian and David Jonathan Rager in 1969, who died shortly after birth. Their daughter, Heather, was born a few years later and grew up as an only child. Barbara taught in Christian schools for many years in elementary grades. It was her calling to serve many children and show them the love of Christ.
She served in many churches, playing the piano and singing or teaching Sunday school. We will miss her greatly! Barbara was predeceased by her dear parents and both brothers.
She is survived by her husband Harold, her sister Patty and Patty's husband Ray, her daughter Heather and Heather's husband Timothy, and six grandchildren.
There will be no visitation or services. Barbara will be laid to rest in WNY National Cemetery in Pembroke. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Crossroads House, PO Box 403, Batavia, New York 14021 or online at www.crossroadshouse.com. Once her daughter could no longer be her sole caregiver, they gave Barbara wonderful care and comfort during her last days. We know that we will see Barbie again, and await that glorious reunion, where death is no more, and Love abides through eternity.
Arrangements were entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home in Bergen. Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.
