Barbara Ann Reed

Barbara Ann Reed, born on April 10, 1939, in St. Louis, Missouri, the daughter of Charles and Geraldine (Vaughn) Lowry passed away peacefully on January 20, 2025, at Wellsville Health and Rehabilitation in Wellsville, Kansas. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, whose warmth and positive spirit touched the lives of everyone she encountered.

Barbara's educational journey began in Bourbon, Missouri, where she graduated from Bourbon High School with the class of 1957. Her early career saw her diligently stocking shelves in the cosmetic department for Target in St. Louis, Missouri, where she dedicated twenty years of service, retiring in 2007.

In 1959, Barbara was united in marriage to Marvin Barden in Kansas City, Missouri; although they later divorced, Barbara held dear the memories of those early years. On April 8, 1988, Barbara married John Reed in St. Louis, Missouri, a union that brought her much joy until his passing in 1994.

Throughout her life, Barbara was devoted to her family. She is survived by her loving daughters, Kem Dodson (Terry) of Kansas City, Missouri, Carol Nitzsche (Don) of Wellsville, Kansas, and Vicky Carter of Bowling Green, Kentucky. Barbara was a proud grandmother to thirteen grandchildren, thirty-two great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. She also shared a special bond with her cousin, Deborah Combs (Karl) of Camdenton, Missouri.

Barbara found joy in many activities, from bowling and fishing to singing, but it was her family who brought her the greatest happiness. She was a devoted member of the Wellsville Baptist Church, where she enjoyed fellowship and growing in her faith.

Barbara is preceded in death by her husband, John Reed; her parents, Charles and Geraldine (Vaughn) Lowry; and the countless memories of love woven through her lifetime. As we remember Barbara, let us celebrate a life well-lived, a heart that loved deeply, and the legacy she leaves behind in the hearts of her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her spirit will forever be a guiding light for those who loved her, reminding us of the importance of family and the simple joys of life.

Cremation is planned with services to be announced at a later date.

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