Barbara Ann Willson

Barbara Ann Putman Willson, 77, joined her Lord and Savior on September 17, 2011. Barbara was born on March 11, 1933 in Baxter Springs, Kansas to Joseph and Leota Putman who preceded her in death. A proud graduate of Baxter Springs High School, Barbara developed and nurtured life-long friendships from her hometown. She began her professional career with Spencer Chemical Company in Kansas City and later joined the staff of the Baxter Springs newspaper. Several years later she met the love of her life, Jim Willson and they were married in September 1961. They lived their entire married life in Miami where Barbara was the ultimate homemaker. Her amazing attributes are far too many to mention, but she will always be remembered as the best cook in the world and the most wonderful wife, mom and Nana on earth. Barbara never met a stranger and was always ready to help others. She had a magical manner about her and everything she touched or became involved with reflected her beautiful qualities. Her love of gardening, arts and crafts, decorating and, most of all, entertaining her family and friends were legendary. Perhaps the greatest joy she experienced were the many years spent leading and guiding hundreds of children through their spiritual journeys at Northwest Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School, sponsored mission trips and anything else the Lord called her to do. One of her greatest pleasures was spending every possible moment with the love of her life, Jim. They traveled throughout the world via cruises and returned several times to the country of Jim’s roots – Germany. In addition to her parents, Barbara was preceded in death by her brothers, Earl Eugene Putman and Jack Lee Putman and a sister Virginia June Putman. She is survived by her husband, Jim; daughters, Cindy Edwards of Longview, Texas; Terri Willson Snow of Tulsa; grandchildren children, Heather Rolison, Allison Potteiger and Carlie Snow and three step great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children in Oklahoma City. Pallbearers serving will be Denzil Corn, Tom Rupert, Rainbo Hale, Gerald Grimes, Dean Bradley, Micheal Victory. A celebration of her life will be held 2:00 PM, Monday September 20, 2010 at Cooper-Althouse Funeral Home Chapel with Brother CC Craig officiating. Interment will follow at GAR Cemetery. The family will receive friends for visitation on Sunday evening September 19, 2010 from 6-7 PM at the Funeral Home. Online guestbook and condolences are available at www.cooperalthousefuneralhome.com The family has chosen Cooper-Althouse Funeral Home with their services.

Barbara Ann Willson

March 11, 1933 - September 17, 2010