Barbara Charlotte (Edwards) Mattila, 85, of Columbia Heights, passed away on December 12, 2024 in her home with family by her side.

Barbara was born at her grandmother's home in Waukenabo Township in Aitkin County, Minnesota, to Grace Ryan Edwards and Garyl Edwards. She was the eldest daughter of 12 children. She grew up in Duluth and Aitkin, spending most of her adult years in Duluth, and then many years at the Legends in Saint Anthony Village.

Barbara was employed at several places, including Lakeshore Lutheran Home as a dietary aide. She enjoyed visiting and working puzzles with her friends, walking through the parks, petting dogs, watching Minnesota Vikings football games, and traveling far and near with her family.

Her dedication, kindness and generosity will not be forgotten.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert Sr.; and brothers, James, Robert, Terrance and Victor Edwards.

Barbara is survived by her four children, Robert Jr., Brenda Bugbee, Brad, and Bernice Mattila-Garcia; 11 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and seven siblings, Judith Irvin, Rose Howell, Garyl Edwards, Stephen Edwards, Pamela Shavinsky, Donna Edwards and Doris Skaj.

Visitation to be held at Noon on Saturday, December 21st at Sunrise Funeral Home, 4798 Miller Trunk Hwy, with Funeral Service at 1:00 PM and reception to follow. Interment at Sunrise Memorial Park Cemetery next to her dear husband.