Note: This message was originally sent on January 10, 2023
One of the greatest blessings of our work is that Gonzaga affords us the opportunity to meet real-life angels. No kidding, I get to know people whose love and care for others runs so deeply and shines so brightly that the only explanation possible is that they are angels walking among us.
Barbara Redmond was one of them.
A 1959 graduate of the Sacred Heart School of Nursing, Barbara dedicated her life to serving those in need—as a nurse and volunteer, she committed thousands upon thousands of hours to making a difference and contributing to the common good. From the House of Charity to the Women and Children’s hospital, Schools of Nursing, (just to name a few) and even a girls’ Camp Fire troop, Barbara gave and served throughout her life.
And oh, could she make you smile! A brilliant woman with a quick wit, Barbara could crack even the toughest exterior and reveal their underlying grin.
Together with her husband Paul (’59), former Washington Water Power/Avista Corp. Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Barbara is recognized at Gonzaga University by a scholarship established by Avista in the School of Engineering and Applied Science that bears their names. Barbara and Paul have also generously established scholarships of their own in the School of Nursing and Human Physiology as well as the School of Engineering and Applied Science.
At an event a few years back, I heard Paul speak publicly about Barbara, his wife of 63 years. The love in his eyes, his words of adoration and admiration, and the pride in his tone sealed the deal for me—I knew without a doubt, that Barbara Redmond was an angel among us.
While I am sad that Barbara is no longer among us—she passed away late last year, spreading her wings, and ascending back to her heavenly home—I take solace in knowing that her legacy will live on at Gonzaga forever. I hope today that you have a moment to notice the angels around you—the people who give, serve, and make others smile. They’re a blessing to know and an even greater blessing to love.