1950 – 2016
Barbara Jean Beck Carlton, 65, passed away on Monday, June 6th, 2016, due to complications from a stroke and renal failure. She was born August 14th, 1950 in Lehi, Utah, the only daughter of Bert and Verland Beck. After graduating from Lehi High School, she attended Utah State University where she was involved in numerous clubs and served as a Student Body Officer. She graduated in 1972 with a teaching degree in English and History. While attending Utah State, she married J. Stephen Martin, a daughter Stephanie was born; they were later divorced. In 1980, she married Lee H. Carlton, her one true friend, confidant and support. Their marriage was later made eternal in the Jordan River Temple.
Barbara worked at Valley Fair Mall and as a substitute teacher in Jordan School District. However, her true life’s work came to pass in 1991 when she began her 22-year career of teaching English to sophomores at Alta High School. She is an enthusiastic, creative, master teacher. She is a true grammarian who shared her love of the English language with her students.
In her down time she relished in reading a good spy novel, cheering for the Utes, soaking up the sun, having her hair styled, completing puzzles, watching her grandchildren, spending time at Bear Lake, going on long drives, watching old classics like Perry Mason and anything Cary Grant. She was adept at making holidays extra special, especially Christmas, always going the extra mile for family and friends.
She is a champion of the underdog and has a soft spot for those less fortunate. Her insights and wisdom will be missed.
Barbara is survived by her devoted husband Lee; son Lee (Angie) of Fruit Heights, Christina of Denver, CO, Jen (Jason) Bailly of Portland, OR, and Stephanie (Kee) Carlton-Johnson of Sandy; grandchildren Trey, Tiffany and Taylor Carlton, Amelia and Zeke Bailly, Holland Johnson; brother Mike (Jan) Beck; sister-in-law Maurine; nieces, nephews and other extended family. She is preceded in death by her parents; and brothers Jerry and Merrill Beck.
The family expresses gratitude to the doctors and numerous nurses, therapists and caregivers at IMC, 4th Floor Neurology Unit and Landmark Hospital for their compassionate care and service during Barbara’s stay.
At Barbara’s and the family’s request, in lieu of flowers, take a child to the zoo, Tracy Aviary or a museum, or please donate to a favorite charity.
A celebration of her life will transpire on Wednesday, June 15th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Complimentary valet parking provided on the north side of the building. A graveside service will take place on Thursday, June 16th at 11:00 AM at Mountain View Memorial Estates, 3115 E. Bengal Blvd, Sandy.