Obituary of Elfriede Barber

Elfriede “Ellie” Barber, 90, of Amsterdam, NY, passed away on October 5^th, 2023, at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady, NY with her loving family by her side.

She was born on April 29^th, 1933, in Dannenfels, Germany to the late George and Frieda (Hack) Schwab. Ellie attended school and spent her childhood in Germany before immigrating to the United States at 18 years old. Once she came to America, she began working as a waitress for different restaurants, including Turf Tavern in Scotia, NY.

Ellie was married to Harold “Clay” Barber on December 18^th, 1962. They shared over 50 beautiful years together before his passing on March 27^th, 2015. Over those 50 years, they welcomed six children and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ellie took pride in being a homemaker and was the heart of the family.

One of Ellie’s greatest joys was to cook or bake, and she would always volunteer to make a dish for church or family events. She attended Perth Bible Church, where she worshipped and served for many years. More than anything, she loved spending time with all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her husband Harold Barber; parents George and Frieda Schwab; sister Emile; and brothers Edwin & Alfons.

Ellie is survived by her children Anthony (Wendy) Sacco, Denise (Ted) Horn, George (Renee) Sacco, Laurie (Bernie) Horn, David (Lisa) Barber, and Marion (Scott) Calhoun, as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind several nieces and nephews in the United States and Germany.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Perth Bible Church in Perth, NY on Saturday, October 14^th, 2023, at 11:00 AM.

Elfriede will be placed in the columbarium wall with Harold at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital Donate - St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital .