Barbara Elizabeth Reed (Chapman), of Helena, MT died at Cooney Healthcare, surrounded by her family on October 28, 2024. She was 73 years old.

Barb was born on June 12, 1951 in Helena, MT to Jessie and Thomas Chapman. Barb was the second oldest of 11 children. Barb enjoyed spending time with her family, playing cards and Orbit. For the past six years, she resided at Cooney Healthcare, after being diagnosed with brain cancer. She found joy in arts and crafts, cherished her bingo games with friends, and keeping the staff on their toes. Barb, being the stubborn feisty woman she was, doctors told her she had 3-4 years, and she showed them by staying with us for almost 7 years.

Barb is survived by her children, Peter (Gem)Tjeerdsma, Thomas Tjeerdsma, and Jean Leischner. She was most proud of her grandchildren Jacob, Justin, Sammie, Jessica, and Nico. She also leaves behind her siblings Frank (Melody) Ritchie, Margaret (Les) Yother, Sandra Chapman, Floyd Chapman, Valerie Thomas, and several nieces and nephews.

Barb is preceded in death by her parents, siblings Elaine Tjeerdsma, Richard Chapman, Jean Parker, Wilma Long, and Tana Mayer.

The family would like to thank Cooney Healthcare for taking care of our mom, and Headwaters Hospice for their compassionate care in her final days.

A celebration of life will be planned for late spring.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choosing.

"Your memory is my keepsake, with which we'll never part. God has you in his keeping, I have you in my heart." ~ Bonnie Dodd