BOLIVAR – Winifred F. Barber, also know as “Winnie,” passed away Friday (Dec. 1, 2023) at the age of 85, in Rochester.

She was born July 31, 1938, in Olean, to the late Junior and Loretta Gowan.

Winnie was a loving wife, mother and grandmother, and she will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Winnie was a graduate of Olean High School and later worked for Service Stores/Park and Shop. She also had a career as a teacher’s aide at Allegany/Cattaraugus County BOCES.

Winnie was a faithful prayer warrior and had a passion for serving in her local church. She worshiped at the First Day Baptist Church in Richburg and later at Grace Baptist Church in Marion.

She enjoyed sewing, making fleece blankets and cross stitch gifts for her loved ones. Additionally, Winnie was known for her excellent baking and candy making skills.

She is survived by her faithful husband, Harold; her daughter, Bette; her son, Clinton (Angela); her grandchildren, Tyler (Layla), Alison (Ving), Melody, Charity and Lydia; her great-grandson, Oliver; and her siblings, Judy Meis, Bill Gowan, Ed Gowan, Sue O’Brien and Rita Blehar.

Winnie was predeceased by her parents; and her siblings, Margaret Cameron, Tom Gowan, Harry Gowan, Howard Gowan and Richard Gowan

Friends will be received from 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturday (Dec. 9, 2023) at the Richburg First Day Baptist Church, with the funeral service starting at noon. Burial will be in the Bowler Cemetery, in Little Genesee.

Memorials in memory of Winnie may be made to the First Day Baptist Church, 128 Main St., Richburg, NY 14774; or Grace Baptist Church, 3040 Walworth Road, Marion, NY 14505.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 1303 E. State St., Olean.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com.