Barbara Gayel Anicich

With angels rejoicing, the Lord took Barbara Gayel Anicich home from this world on November 18, 2015 in Carmichael CA. Born June 16, 1936 in Taylorsville, California to Lois Marie McColm and John Marcel McCutcheon, with her “Brother”, Richard McCutcheon (deceased) whom she dearly loved. Barbara was married for 49 years to Albert George Anicich (deceased) and survived by her six devoted children: Mike (Jeanne), Vince (Tonya), Chris (Sally), Melinda (Ty Lewis), Kerry (Phil Kenney) and Cindy Abercrombie (Bob preceded in death). She is also survived by 18 adoring grandchildren, ages 18 to 31: Alexander and Nicholas (Melissa) Anicich, Vincent, Natasha, Vanessa, Nathaniel and Austin Anicich, Brandon and Cameron Anicich, Cetarra and Blair Lewis, Nicole (Kyle Barmby), Jacob and Rachael Kenney, Jordan (Ashley), Savannah (Eli Davis), Parker and Bailey Abercrombie; and 13 great grandchildren, ages 6 weeks to 7 years, who brought great delight to Gram these last years. Barbara’s life truly exemplified that of an authentic Christian; she greatly loved God and because of that, she greatly loved people. She lived life with an others-centered focus, faithfully serving her family and all those she came in contact. During holidays she routinely opened her home to non-family members, desiring that no one be left alone and throughout the year served all who entered with her famous baked goods, espresso and a listening ear. All who entered mom’s life felt welcomed, valued and loved, as was demonstrated by the dozens who longed to see her before she slipped into eternity. Barbara had a brilliant, keen mind and graduated from high school at 16; left Plumas County at 16 ½ years old to attend college in Sacramento where she met Albert. Barb and Al married and by the time she was 28, they had six children within seven years. The next decades were spent on what she considered the highest calling of her life: motherhood. She was available to all, whether chauffeuring to ball games, part time jobs or nightly preparing dinner for eight! It was during these years that many others considered her “Mom” or “Grammie Barb”. Barbara was a compassionate friend to the weary of this world and made time in her busy life for the hurting and less fortunate. Barbara greatly enjoyed her grandchildren, whom she watched as little children. During these final years, they delightfully drove her to Starbucks, medical appointments, outings or just “hung out with Gram”. Barbara has truly left this earth a better place and has left a legacy of faith, love and family commitment that will live on for generations to come. Barbara also leaves behind her sisters-in-law and their families, Jacque McCutcheon of Taylorsville, CA, Doris and Elmer (deceased) Vota of Petaluma, CA, Mary Ann and Don Long of Fair Oaks CA and Jane and Leo Hennessy (deceased). She leaves behind dearest friends of almost fifty years, Susan Whetstone and Anna Knott. She has left a legacy which will not be forgotten and her example has reminded us of what really matters in this life. Barbara will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, November 29th at 1:00 pm at Touchstone Christian Fellowship, which meets at 4600 Winding Way (Carmichael Seventh Day Adventist Church), Sacramento CA. Interment will be private. Please share your memories and photos of Barbara at www.sierraviewfuneralchapel.net.

Barbara Gayel Anicich

June 16, 1936 - November 18, 2015