1932-2025
Barbara Jean Artist, affectionately known as Barb to her friends and loved ones, was a beacon of unwavering love and selflessness. Born on Sept. 28, 1932, at the home of her great-grandfather, Andrew Dove, in North Branch Township, Guthrie Center, to Kenneth and Lucille Charter, she embarked on a journey of compassion and dedication that would come to define her 92 years of life. On June 13, 2025, Barb departed this world as peacefully as she lived in it, at The New Homestead in Guthrie Center, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and optimism.
Barb’s early life was growing up alongside her siblings, Paul and Carolyn, in the nurturing embrace of her parents. Though her brother Paul and her parents preceded her in death, Barb cherished their memories. On June 30, 1951, she united in marriage with Delbert Artist, and together they lovingly raised six children: Rick, Craig, Randy, Teresa, Mike and Mark. Their home was a sanctuary of love, and hard work, with Barb’s kind spirit at the very heart of it.
Barb’s commitment to education was a testament to her belief in improving and preparing for life. After graduating from Guthrie Center Community School in 1950, she pursued the study of nursing but stopped in order to get married. However, 30 years later, she again pursued the study and received her LPN from Iowa Western Community College. Her career at the Exira Medical Clinic under Dr. Shaffer spanned two decades, where she was much more than a nurse; she was a smiling face and a friend to all who walked through the clinic’s doors.
Barb’s life was a remarkable blend of service to her family and friends. As a farm wife and mother, she juggled the demands of raising six children with grace and vigor. Her hands, always busy, tended to the garden, milked cows and even drove a tractor when needed. Barb’s home was a hub of activity and care, where she not only cooked and cleaned for her beloved family but also instilled in them the values of respect, education and hope.
Her Christian faith was the cornerstone of her existence. A lifelong member of the Bowman Chapel Methodist Church, Barb’s love for the Lord shone brightly in her actions and her words. She taught Sunday School, instilling the love of God in the hearts of many. Her friends, some of whom she cherished for decades, knew her as a woman whose faith was as authentic as it was profound.
Barb’s interests were as varied as they were heartfelt. She found solace in reading and studying her Bible and expressed her love through the meticulous stitches of the garments she sewed for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her culinary skills were legendary, especially during the holidays when her cooking brought together generations in celebration. Education was a cause close to her heart, and she championed her children’s pursuit of the future with the unwavering belief that “if there is a will, there is a way.” She wanted to leave a legacy for her grandchildren so they would know each other and cherish times together in what she called Cousin’s Days. Every summer for 20 years, she brought them all together for a week of fun and learning. Plus, she loved watching and hearing about her grandkids’ and great grandkids’ activities as well.
Described by those who knew her best as loving, thoughtful and selfless, Barb truly embodied the wife of noble character as written in Proverbs 31. She set an exemplary standard not only for her children but for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well. Her memory will forever be a testament to the power of a life lived with purpose, faith and boundless love.
Barb is survived by her children, Rick (Julie) Artist, Craig (Rhonda) Artist, Randy Artist, Teresa (Steve) Johnson, Michael (Jennie) Artist, and Mark Artist; 17 grandchildren; a multitude of great-grandchildren; and sister, Carolyn Hollar. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Delbert, on Feb. 21, 2025; and her brother, Paul Charter.
Funeral services will be 1 p.m., Friday, June 20, 2025, at Bowman Chapel United Methodist Church, rural Guthrie Center. Burial will be in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, rural Guthrie Center. Visitation will be Thursday, June 19, 2025, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Twigg Funeral Home, Guthrie Center.
Memorials may be left to Bowman Chapel or the New Homestead’s activity fund.
