Rachel Barksdale, age 83, of Rolette, ND passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at her home.

Rachel Faith Barksdale was born on January 3, 1940 in Rolette, ND to Lloyd and Judith (Strand) Thompson.  She was raised in Rolette and completed her education there as well, graduating from Rolette High School in 1958.  Rachel excelled in high school with her out going personality and was proud to be chosen as a varsity cheerleader all four years of high school.  She was united in marriage to Robert Barksdale, he preceded her in death. Rachel was a loving mother to three sons, Derrick, Robert, and Michel. Following the death of her husband Robert, Rachel furthered her education at nursing school in Bottineau, ND obtaining her nursing degree.  At the young age of 15 she began working in a hospital setting as a candy striper and that eventually bloomed in to a life time of nursing care at various places including the Rolette Hospital and Jamestown State Hospital.  She worked tirelessly as a nurse and as a mother, raising her sons on her own.  Her life of caring for others was reinforced by her strong faith which carried her through both tough times and happy times throughout her life.  She was a member of Ebenezer Lutheran Brethren Church in Rolette for many years. Rachel enjoyed being outdoors caring for her flowers and gardening.  She also liked crocheting in her spare time.  Rachel loved her family dearly and was so proud of her sons and grandchildren.  She will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed.

Rachel is survived by her sons, Derrick (Kim) of Louisville, KY, Robert (Julie) of Ellsworth, WI, and Michel (Julie) of East Grand Forks, MN; four grandchildren, Bobby, Benny, Reagan, and Abby Barksdale; brother, Harold Thompson of Rolette; and nieces and nephews.

Rachel was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Judith Thompson, husband, Robert Barksdale, brother, Donald Thompson, and sisters, Lois Garrity and Dorothy Retty.

Casket Bearers are Bobby Barksdale, Benny Barksdale, Reagan Barksdale, Derrick Barksdale, Robert Barksdale, and Michel Barksdale.  Pianist is Judy Martinson.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday, July 31, 2023 at Ebenezer Lutheran Brethren Church, Rolette, ND with visitation 2 Hours prior to funeral services.  Burial will be in North Ox Creek Cemetery, Rolette, ND.  Pastor Gene Wilson officiating.

Elick Funeral Home, Rolla, ND.