Georgia Maxine Barfus Westmoreland

Georgia Maxine Barfus Westmoreland, aged 85, chose June 28, 2024, as the day to pack up her cookie cutters and Reese’s Stix and join the celestial kitchen above. Born on April 24, 1939, to the delightful duo George Barfus and Virginia Hawkes in Preston, Idaho, Maxine lived a life as sweet as the treats she baked.

A proud alumnus of Preston High School’s class of 1957, Mom flirted briefly with higher education at Brigham Young University before diving headfirst into the working world, where real adventures awaited. Mom retired from Weber State University after 25 years working in the Physics Department and as the assistant to the Dean of the College of Science. 

Mom first tied the knot with Leon Anderson, eventually trading him in for a lifetime warranty on love with James Tanner Westmoreland. Married on November 2, 1968, in Preston, Idaho, their union was later blessed in the Ogden Utah Temple—which means he can’t trade her in, ever.

Mom’s dedication to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints was as strong as her baking game. She served in various callings, often leaving the youth feeling both spiritually uplifted and slightly over-sugared. Her talents were infinite, but her service was her true calling, touching lives with her kindness and love for everyone.

In addition to her love of serving others and sweet treats, Maxine had an unwavering passion for music. She adored playing the piano and would often fill her home with the melodies of her favorite hymns and songs. Her singing, though she humbly claimed it was just a joyful noise, was cherished by all who heard it. Family gatherings often turned into impromptu concerts, with Maxine at the keys and everyone else joining in. She believed in the healing power of music and used it to bring joy and comfort to those around her.

Feeding people was Mom’s favorite means of communication. Entering her home with an empty (or full) stomach was clearly a mistake. No one left without trying one of her beloved cookies, which she distributed with the zeal of a food fairy godmother. She had an impish laugh that, once it started, would have everyone else joining in or scrambling out of the way.

Her grandchildren fondly recall Grandma Maxine as an absolute gem whose kindness and knack for making friends were legendary. Whether with neighbors, church folk, or the staff at her nursing home, Maxine made deep connections. Her love for her family, especially her grandkids, was unmistakable, filling their lives with boundless affection and joy.

Sunday dinners at Grandma’s became fondly remembered feasts, now treasured memories. Her ability to turn ordinary gatherings into extraordinary events was nothing short of magical. And oh, her infectious laugh! If you shared a mishap, like getting popcorn popped right in the eye, she’d laugh until she cried, and you’d find the humor in it too.

Some of her grandchildren love recounting how she convinced one of them they were a great singer. She’d play the piano and invite them to sing along, convincing them (regardless of talent) that they sounded wonderful. She made everyone feel celebrated, no matter their skill level.

All who met and cared for Mom had nothing but delightful things to say about her. She will be sorely missed, but her spirit, humor, and those life-changing cookies will remain in the hearts of everyone who knew her.

Mom leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory forever. She is survived by her son, Rick; and her beloved grandchildren, McKinlee, Mitchell, Sadie Lynn, and Samantha Jo as well as three great-grandchildren. Each of them carries a piece of her heart and her love for life and the memories she created with each of them.

Celebrations of Maxine’s life and legacy will be held at the Preston Cemetery on July 8, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Since she loved just sitting and talking with friends and strangers alike, the service will be an “open mic” opportunity. Come ready to listen to stories of her lifetime of mischief and feel free to share some of your own. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at webbmortuary.com.

So, here’s to Mom/Grandma—a life fully lived with laughter, love, music, and limitless cookies. Rest in peace, Mom; may you continue spreading joy and laughter in the great beyond.