Barbara Haviland

With a shining smile and a heart that overflowed with compassion and generosity, Barbara Haviland touched so many lives for the better. She gave freely of her time and energy, thinking often of others, and as a headstrong and fiercely determined woman, there was no obstacle that could hold her back for long. Barb’s greatest joys were found in moments shared with her friends and family. Her unwavering strength was rooted in her deep, steadfast faith, and her solid work ethic was nothing short of inspirational. Dearly loved, Barbara will be forever missed and remembered.

Barbara was born in Youngstown, Ohio. She was raised first in the city and then in the countryside in Canfield alongside her four siblings, Suzanne, Rebecca, Heather, and Chapman. Sadly, she lost her sister Suzanne during her formative years, and another sister, Ellen, who was stillborn. Barbara would remember growing up with animals around, including a horse. Each Sunday, she would enjoy Sunday drives out into the country. Throughout her childhood, Barb and her family spent many weeks of the summer on vacation, tent camping in all different places, including a memorable trip out West in the summer of 1966, when they got to hike down into the Grand Canyon. At home, they also visited Mill Creek Park often. From a young age, Barbara possessed a love for reading. She excelled as a student in local schools and was a member of the National Honor Society. In 1967, Barbara celebrated her graduation from Canfield High School, eager to see what her future held.

Barb went on to attend Kent State University. She was very dedicated to her studies and especially loved learning from her Latin teacher. Barbara graduated from Kent State in 1972, earning her degree in Latin and Education. Some of her good friends, Hank and Marlene, moved to West Michigan, and Barb followed. She settled down in West Michigan, working in a travel agency and substituting at school from time to time as well. Eventually, she began working as a child welfare worker for the state of Michigan.

As 1980 rolled around, exciting changes were unfolding on Barb’s journey. Her daughter, Megan, made her entrance into the world, and Barbara was able to adopt her in 1981. Megan was born with Down Syndrome, and Barb gracefully stepped into the role as her main caregiver. Just a few years later, her family grew to include two more precious daughters, Mallory and Margaret. Throughout her life, Barb was a dedicated, hardworking single mom, raising her kids on Alpine Avenue on the West side of Grand Rapids. She was their biggest supporter and loved attending all of their activities, cheering them on in everything they pursued. Barb would help Mallory with her paper route, especially on Sundays.

Each summer, Barbara’s family looked forward to going blueberry picking and spending time at Lake Michigan. They also enjoyed family camping trips, with all of them packed together in a tent. The Havilands traveled to visit family and sights in many states

across the United States, including South Dakota, Colorado, California, Virginia, and Florida. In 2004, Barbara retired from her career working for the state of Michigan. To stay busy, she worked seasonally, including at the White Caps Ballpark and Grand Valley State University football games. She also devoted herself to caring for her daughter, Megan. When Barb became a grandmother in her later years, she was always eager to volunteer to help care for her precious grandkids. She loved nothing more than being surrounded by those she loved so dearly.

She loved to travel and was able to visit many breathtaking locations, including China, Australia, France, and Spain. Traveling to the Great Barrier Reef was especially memorable, and Barb visited Scotland nine times over the years! She also visited almost every US state. Barbara’s faith was the foundation of her life. She was a longtime member of her church home, and she always felt so supported and loved by her church and congregation. Barb volunteered at the food pantry every week. She highly valued recycling and did her part to take care of the planet.

As all who were fortunate enough to know and love Barbara Haviland can certainly attest, she went above and beyond each and every day to care for those around her. She was a shining example of faith and integrity, and it was the quiet moments spent with loved ones that brought her the most joy. A dedicated sister, mother, and grandmother, Barb’s family was undoubtedly her greatest treasure. Her legacy is one of unwavering kindness and fierce, unconditional love. Although life will never be the same without Barb here, she leaves behind a precious collection of happy memories for her friends and family to hold close.

Barbara G. Haviland, age 77, of Walker MI, passed away on October 23, 2026 with her loving and caring family by her side. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Wayne and Ada Haviland, her sisters Suzanne and Ellen Haviland.

Barbara is survived by her children Megan Haviland, Mallory (Stephen) Hrycyk and Margaret (Annie) Haviland. Barbara also leaves behind her eight beloved grandchildren Eden, Gabriel, Caleb, Thaddeus, Aiden, Avi, Lucas and Malachi; as well as her siblings Rebecca (Jeffrey) Hathaway, Heather (David Stehlin) Haviland, Chapman (Michelle) Haviland, and a large number of nieces, nephews, and special friends.

A service to remember and honor Barbara will be held on Tuesday October 27, 2026 at 12:00 Noon at Grace Church, 100 Buckley St SE Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Barbara’s family will meet with friends and family on Tuesday starting at 11 AM prior to her funeral service. Barbara will be laid to rest at Ridgeview Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions in Barbara’s name can be made to Grace Church. To sign Barbara’s guestbook, leave a memory, or post a photo, please visit www.heritagelifestory.com.