Barbara Ellen (Carlile) Meyer

Barbara Ellen (Carlile) Meyer, age 90 of Midland, passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026. She was born in Fulton County, Indiana on December 10, 1935 to the late Herb and Setta (Fields) Carlile. On September 2, 1961, Barbara married Wendell Meyer in Mentone, Indiana and they shared 50 years together until his passing in 2012.

Surviving is her son Steve Meyer of Midland, daughter Jennifer Meyer of Holland, Michigan, sister Phyllis (Carlile) Hall of Findlay, Ohio and many nephews and nieces. In addition to her parents, Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Wendell Meyer and brothers Billy and Ershel Carlile.

Barbara was full of life and vitality, with a boundless curiosity for the world around her. Upon meeting someone, she would soon discover topics of mutual interest and often become fast friends. Growing up on a dairy farm in Indiana, “Hoosier Hospitality” was instilled in her at a young age. Having friends pop by for a visit was always a favorite part of her day.

Gardening wasn’t just a hobby, but a life-long passion. She loved digging her fingers in the dirt; soon beautiful blooms appeared, wherever she lived. Her involvement with the Little Garden Club and Midland Beautification efforts allowed for the sharing of that passion. Associated with her love of gardening, Barbara lived and championed Ecological efforts from her youngest years, many learned from her mother Setta.

An accomplished and talented artist, Barbara reveled in the varied ways she could apply beauty to a canvas. Commissioned works, exhibitions, personal artwork on Christmas cards – these were just a few examples of what she loved to share. She designed and built her dream house, from an idea hatched during a college Home Economics class.

Teaching was the other foundation of Barbara’s life. First as a young elementary school art teacher in southern Indiana, and later as an instructor at Northwood University, she excelled at sharing her expertise in classroom settings. But more informally, she delighted in sharing her talents, ideas and knowledge any time it could help someone else.

She adored traveling, always wondering what was around the next bend in the road. She also enjoyed community involvement with the Clytean club and Midland Area Arts Council. She will be remembered for her creativity, kindness, generosity, and genuine interest in others—qualities that touched countless lives and created a legacy of beauty, friendship, and service.

A service to honor Barbara’s life will be held at Noon on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at Memorial Presbyterian Church, 1310 Ashman St. Midland, MI 48640. Her good friend, Rev. Dr. Wallace H. Mayton III will officiate, with lunch to follow the service in the church hall. Friends and family are invited to gather for visitation at 10:00 am prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Barbara’s memory may be offered to the Little Fork’s Conservancy.