Vivian B. Barrent Nursing Scholarship
Vivian Mae (Beebe) Barrent passed away on June 9, 2017, in Urbandale, IA, at the age of 95. Vivian was the daughter of the late Mae Beebe and Reverend Ralph Julius Beebe, was born in Ballantine, MT, on December 16, 1921. Vivian studied nursing at the University of Iowa where she met her husband Milton. She married Milton Barrent, M.D. in Clinton, IA, on May 27, 1952. Later in life, she continued her education earning a Bachelor of Science in nursing studies from St. Ambrose College, Davenport, IA. While living in Clinton, IA, for over 40 years, Vivian was an active volunteer and leader of many community groups. She was involved with the First Congregational Church, Clinton Public Schools, Clinton County Medical Auxiliary, Clinton Country Club Auxiliary, Jane Lamb and Mercy Hospitals Auxiliaries, American Cancer Society and Clinton Concert Association. She was a faithful member of P.E.O. Chapter JW and the Sinoida Club. She volunteered her time and talents as a Sunday school teacher, Girl Scout leader and PTA.
Vivian spent most of her days caring for her family and took time to attend all extra-curricular activities of her children. She would be there at all hours of the night and day with the birth of grandchildren and would travel many miles to move children into dorms at college or into their new homes. Vivian was multi-talented with her abilities to assist with decorating rooms and exteriors, to baking cookies, pies and her most famous brownies! Anyone who had the great fortune of being a guest in the Barrent home was sure to get a warm and loving welcome, wonderful meals, and very clean accommodations.
Vivian spent her later years in the Des Moines area and was very active at Heartland Presbyterian Church. She was one of the original residents at Deerfield Retirement Community in 2005. She had many fun-filled days enjoying her morning coffee group, chimes and all the various activities! Vivian had a keen mind for business and enjoyed discussing investments and current events.
Vivian will be remembered for her loving and caring ways for all people who had the privilege to be in her company. She enjoyed planning and preparing family events and homemade meals with her well-known traditional recipes and desserts! Her beautiful blue eyes, friendly smile, generosity and helpful ways will long be remembered by all that knew her.