Barbara Ann Wasson Garver

Barbara Ann Wasson Garver, 90, died Saturday, August 2, 2025, at her home in Claysburg, Pennsylvania.  She was predeceased by her former husband of 37 years, Jay A. Garver.  Barbara was born July 2, 1935, in Tyrone, Pennsylvania, as one of five children, to the late Harold N. and Mary Adaline (Miller) Wasson.  Surviving are her three children: Jayne A. Garver of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, J. Anthony (Meg) Garver of Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania and James A. (Kara) Garver of Claysburg, Pennsylvania; sister-in-law Brenda J. Garver of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and 10 grandchildren, whom she adored.

Barbara was preceded in death by her brothers, Marion Eugene Wasson, James (Carol) Wasson, Jack (Garnett) Wasson and Kenneth (Janet) Wasson.

Barbara graduated from Tyrone Area High School in 1953 and Shippensburg State Teachers College in 1957, graduating at the top of her class at both.  While she and her family lived in many different towns throughout Pennsylvania, Barbara started and ended her career by teaching English and later math for the Hollidaysburg Area School District for approximately 30 years. 

She served on the Claysburg-Kimmel School board for 34 years.  As a school board member, she was instrumental in the construction of the Claysburg Elementary School in 1991 and the high school renovations of the early 2000’s.  She was responsible for the institution of the Claysburg-Kimmel Academic Banquet, held annually from 1984 to the present time.  Throughout her tenure on the board, she was a relentless advocate on behalf of teachers and students alike.

Barbara was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Hollidaysburg where she served as an Elder, on the education committee, and numerous other groups during her retirement years.  She was also an active member of the Adam Holliday Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Barbara was a devoted and supportive mother who placed significant importance on the value of education.  She enjoyed reading, knitting, needlepoint, Rice Krispies and ice cream.  An avid fan of the Steelers, Pirates, and Claysburg-Kimmel athletics, she attended countless sporting events over her lifetime which she enjoyed immensely (especially those in which her sons and grandchildren played or coached).

Friends will be received from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Friday, August 8, 2025, at the Sorge Funeral Home in Hollidaysburg.  A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 9, 2025, in the chapel of the First Presbyterian Church in Hollidaysburg, with refreshments to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Claysburg Area Public Library, 935 Bedford Street, Claysburg, PA  16625, or the First Presbyterian Church, 601 Walnut Street, Hollidaysburg, PA  16648.

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