Keyboardist extraordinaire Barbara L. Garges of Apalachin passed away Tuesday, Aug. 13. She was 91.
Garges’ obituary describes her as “an active musician in the area,” a massive understatement. She was the organist at Tabernacle United Methodist Church in Binghamton for four decades and was an adjunct professor at Binghamton University for 28 years.
“Oh, how blessed we were to have Barb playing for over 40 years at Tabernacle UMC,” said Theresa Lee-Whiting, Director of Music Ministries. “Her improvisations, hymn playing and choir accompanying made every service special.”
As a pianist, Garges was “a stalwart of the (BU) music department,” accompanying countless student recitals, recalled Associate Professor of Voice Emerita Mary Burgess.
“Barbara was my accompanist for my Binghamton life,” said Louise Wohlafka, former Tri-Cities Opera leading soprano. “She could play anything for starters. … She was a special lady whom I was honored to know!”
Garges shared her talents with many musical organizations. “Barbara probably accompanied and performed on more Harmony Club programs than anyone,” said clarinestist Joanne Peters. “She will truly be missed.”
Garges was predeceased by her parents, Lloyd and Dorothy Keyser, and her husband of 60 years, Neil Garges. She is survived by her son, Kenneth Garges; three sisters and a brother-in-law, Alma and Jack McFarland, Deborah Shinall and Sharon Whitton; and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Tuesday (Aug. 20 ) with funeral services immediately following at 11 a.m. at the Estey, Munroe & Fahey Funeral Home, 15 Park St., Owego. The Rev. Janet Abel of Tabernacle UMC will officiate. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Apalachin. Condolences may be made at www.emfaheyfuneralhome.com.
— Barb Van Atta
