Barbara Grace (Beckstead) Ellsworth

Barbara Grace (Beckstead) Ellsworth (83) passed away on June 14, 2024, in Chandler, Arizona, at. She was born on October 24, 1940, in Phoenix, Arizona. Barbara was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. 

Barbara was one of a kind. She had a warm and loving personality, spreading joy wherever she went. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she shared it with everyone she met. Barbara was known for her generosity, sense of humor, and love of laughter. She enjoyed playing Canasta and Hand and Foot, as well as traveling with her family. 

In her professional life, Barbara was a dedicated educator. She served as a Professor at Mesa Community College for 46 years, retiring in 2012. She also made significant contributions as a writer of business textbooks and was the proud owner of Ellsworth Publishing Company. 

Barbara will be deeply missed by her husband, Dean Riggs Ellsworth Sr., her children Dean Jr. (Rachele), Don (Lydia), Duane (Angie), Audra Owens (Justin), David (Marisa), and her 23 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents Logan and Hannah Beckstead, and her siblings Gordon, Jens, and Doris Beckstead. 

A Viewing will be held on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 9:00 am, followed by a Funeral Service at 10:00 am, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Del Rio building, 1280 W. Del Rio Street, Chandler, AZ 85224. She will be interred at Mesa City Cemetery, 1212 N. Center Street, Mesa, AZ 85201. 

The compassionate team at Whitney & Murphy Bueler Mortuary in Chandler, Arizona, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.