ATLANTA, Ga. — A sister missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints died after suffering injuries from a car accident in Atlanta,
Ga. Friday afternoon.
Sister Ann Barnard, 20, of Snoqualmie, Wash., was serving in the Georgia Atlanta North Mission when the accident occurred. Barnard’s companion, Sister Rachel Beckstrom, from Tooele, was also seriously injured.
“We extend our love and prayers in behalf of their families and loved ones at this difficult time,” said Eric Hawkins, spokesman for the LDS Church.
Barnard’s family released the following statement:
“As a family, we are deeply saddened by the loss of our loving daughter, sister and granddaughter. On behalf of our entire family, we wish to express our love and appreciation for all of the support and prayers that have been offered in the wake of this tragic loss. Her loving family and all of her friends will miss her larger-than-life smile and the radiance that made her instantly lovable. In this tragic time, our comfort comes from our belief that Natalie is with our Heavenly Father and that she continues the Lord’s work with the same vigor with which she entered the mission field. Natalie was driven by a deep conviction to serve a mission. She loved the people of Georgia and served them faithfully. She would not have wanted to be anywhere else than serving in the Georgia Atlanta North Mission. We love our Savior, Jesus Christ, and we know that through him and his eternal sacrifice that we’ll someday soon see our beloved Natalie again. It is with this knowledge that we have the comfort and courage necessary to mourn and celebrate the life of our dear Natalie.”
