Barbara J. McKee

Barbara Mercier McKee, born on September 14, 1958, in Detroit, Michigan, peacefully transitioned from this life on September 29, 2021, surrounded by her loving family at her home in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Her departure marked the end of a remarkable journey, defined by resilience, love, and a relentless spirit that inspired all who knew her. Born to Jim and Teresa Mercier, Barbara's early years in Detroit were foundational to her indomitable character. She graduated from Dearborn High School and went on to pursue higher education at the University of Michigan and Henry Ford Community College. Barbara's determination and talent led her to become the first wheelchair user to graduate as a chef from a CIA-accredited institution. Her passion for the arts blossomed during her studies in Theatre Arts at the University of New Mexico, where she produced the thought-provoking drama "The Letter." Barbara's career was as diverse as it was impactful. She owned a durable medical equipment company and excelled as a top computer systems engineer for Henry Ford Healthcare Systems. After her move to Albuquerque in 1999, she met her beloved husband, Mark McKee. Together, they built a life filled with shared passions and unwavering support for one another. In Albuquerque, Barbara's career continued to flourish as she served as an administrator for St. Joseph Healthcare for the Homeless and later at the Center for Development and Disability at the University of New Mexico. Her voice resonated through her weekly opinion columns in the Albuquerque Tribune, where her insightful perspectives were cherished for seven years. Barbara's life was a testament to courage and advocacy. Born with severe spina bifida and becoming paraplegic at the age of 15, she never allowed her challenges to define her. Instead, she rose as a beacon of hope, winning numerous awards for her work in disability rights and awareness activism. Her passion extended beyond her professional pursuits; she was an accomplished poet, a published author, and a beloved performer. Her personal life was rich with joy and love. Barbara was a devoted foodie, an avid gardener, and a lover of film and literature. She had a special affinity for the Detroit Red Wings, earning the admiration of the team and staff at the iconic Joe Louis arena. Her joy was magnified when she had the honor of holding the Stanley Cup during its first visit to Albuquerque, a story she delighted in sharing with every hockey enthusiast she met. Barbara is survived by her devoted husband, Mark, with whom she shared 21 beautiful years, her three cherished children, Chris MacCanon, Debra Lock, and Jeff Bailey, their respective spouses, and her beloved grandchild, Marcas Lock, all residing in Albuquerque. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the University of New Mexico Hospital for their exceptional and compassionate care over the past decade, with special thanks to Dr. Maxine Dorin (retired). In honoring Barbara's memory, the family kindly suggests donations be made to a charity of choice, as a tribute to her generous spirit and lifelong commitment to making the world a better place. Barbara's legacy will continue to inspire and uplift all who knew her. Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering resilience will be deeply missed, yet cherished forever in the hearts of her family and friends.