Barbara Jean Matteson, 78, died peacefully in her Coupeville home on

June 27, 2010 surrounded by her family, with waves of love and prayers. She had fought against melanoma for the past six months, with the help and support of a network of friends and family.

She was born at Windsor Barracks in London, England in 1932. Her father, a Coldstream Guard in the British Army, was killed when she was a child, and she was raised by her mother, grandmother and aunt during the difficult days of World War II England.

In 1949 she met an American airman named Robert Matteson whom she married and moved to America.

While living in the U.S. and Japan, Jean raised three children. During this time she worked as a travel agent. Eventually the couple found their place in the world on Whidbey Island where they remained for the past 35 years.

Over the years Jean was active in community theater, writing groups, gardening and engaging in storytelling with her close community.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Robert D. Matteson, who passed away in 2005. Jean’s stories will continue to be told by her family: son Bruce Matteson; daughter Suzanne Matteson Whalen (Michael); son Mark Matteson (Debora); son Bert Turnbull (Diane); her four grandchildren, Adrian Turnbull (Brandy); Colin Matteson (girlfriend Stefanie); Evan Matteson; and LaRod Lover; and brother J. Brian Robinson.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 31 at the Crockett Farm barn in Coupeville.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ebey’s Landing National Historic Reserve to support the restoration of the Ferry House. Send donations to The Trust Board of Ebey’s Landing, PO Box 774, Coupeville, WA 98239, Attn: Ebey’s Forever, Barbara Jean Matteson.