“We cry and Heaven rejoices.”

Barbara Ann Atherton, 81, of Mount Union, PA departed her earthly home on January 14, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born August 18, 1944, in Mount Union, daughter of the late Gerald and Lena (Parks) Rosenbery. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Richard E. Atherton. She is preceded in death by one sister Linda Rosenbery, and daughter in-law, Kay Atherton.

Her life was centered around her husband, who was the love of her life. Barbara and Richard had two beautiful children, daughter Amy Atherton Burkholder of Richmond, VA; son Ronald Atherton of Mapleton Depot; grandchildren Paul Atherton, Brandy Leonard, Melissa Burkholder, Kara Burkholder; great-grandchildren Kira Park, Jase Atherton, Colt Atherton.

Barbara was the last surviving member of her Rosenbery family.

During Barbara’s lifetime she was employed as a Seamstress for Greif Industries and an Administrative Secretary for the Guidance Center at Mount Union Area Junior Senior High School, where she later retired.

Barbara was a member of the Mount Union Christian and Missionary Alliance Church where she served as the Deaconess, she enjoyed helping with children’s ministries, and was a dedicated prayer warrior. She enjoyed bird watching with her husband Richard, and loved doing crossword puzzles on the computer.

Barbara was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was a great friend to many who she considered family. She will be dearly missed.

Friends and Family will be received on January 17, 2026, from 10:00 – 12:00 at Mount Union Christian and Missionary Alliance Church 217 S. Washington St., Mount Union, PA 17066 with a service at 12:00, Pastor Richard Peck officiate. A private interment will take place at Mount Union Borough Cemetery. To those who wish donations can also be made to the Mount Union Christian and Missionary Alliance Church.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Heath-Anderson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 61 E. Shirley St., Mount Union, "Honored Provider of Veterans Funeral Care™." Condolences may be made at AndersonFamilyFuneralHomes.com