Barbara Ellen Lowry

Barbara Ellen Lowry, 94, of Boise, Idaho, passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on Monday, August 11, 2025. Born in Meridian, Idaho, in 1931 to Braz Lee and Mary Alene Kyle, Barbara’s life was a testament to faith, service, and love.

Barbara graduated from Boise High School in 1949, where she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior—a commitment that guided her every step for the rest of her days. While still in school, she met the love of her life, Don Lowry. They married in 1951 and celebrated their 74th wedding anniversary this past June, an enduring example of devotion and partnership. Together, they raised three children: Diane, David, and Susan.

When their eldest, Diane, was born with special needs, Barbara’s heart was ignited with a lifelong mission: to change how the world sees and treats people with disabilities. In the late 1950s, Gem Haven School opened at University Christian Church, and Barbara began as a volunteer. When a teacher left, she stepped in without hesitation, setting her on a path of advocacy that would impact thousands.

In 1964, Barbara became Executive Director of the ARC (Association for Retarded Citizens), a role she held for 37 years. Under her leadership, the ARC grew into a multimillion-dollar organization serving special needs citizens across Idaho. She oversaw the creation of the Albion Street training center, the founding of group homes to teach independent living, and countless initiatives to help people integrate fully into their communities.

Barbara’s tireless work earned recognition from Idaho Governors Cecil Andrus, John Evans, and Dirk Kempthorne; U.S. Senators James McClure and Steve Symms; and many civic organizations. She traveled across the country, sharing the ARC story and inspiring other communities to launch programs of their own.

Alongside her professional work, Barbara and Don were steadfast members of University Christian Church, where they sang in the choir, led youth groups, taught Sunday school, and quietly ensured the needs of others were met.

Barbara’s circle of friendship was wide and deep, but a few dear ones held especially close places in her heart: her sister Bonnie and Melvin Fredriksen, Myrtle and Dale Christiansen, and the beloved Galilean Sunday School Class.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Marguerite Toll, Joyce Carringer (Glen), Della Kyle, Bonnie Fredriksen (Melvin), and Frances Kyle; brother Richard Kyle; and her cherished daughter, Diane Lowry. She is survived by her devoted husband, Don; son Dave Lowry (Connie); daughter Susan Melby (Alan); and sister Norma Lee of Vancouver, Washington.

A celebration of Barbara’s extraordinary life will be held Tuesday, August 19, at 11:00 a.m. at Parkview Christian Church, 201 W. Ustick Rd., Meridian, Idaho 83646.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff of St. Luke’s Hospital, Riverview Rehabilitation, and Idaho Home Hospice for their loving care in her final days.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Parkview Christian Church in Barbara’s memory.