She was born December 20, 1932, in Eugene, Oregon, the daughter of Linley Howard Lutz and Esther Marguerite Dandy. She was the younger of two daughters. Her sister Dorothy Elizabeth, passed away while just a child.
Barbara joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in 1965 and was a member of the Fulton Missouri Ward prior to moving to North Carolina to live with her son Steve. She had a great love for Jesus Christ and His gospel, and knew that those loved ones who have passed before have been waiting patiently for her to join them, especially John, to whom she was sealed for all eternity in the Denver, Colorado temple on May 20, 1989.
One of Barbara’s favorite phrases over the last few years was, “Tell me a story”. She loved hearing about other people’s adventures, or even mundane daily life, especially those involving any of her 8 children, 26 grandchildren, and 42 great-grandchildren. Her greatest joy came from calls and visits from her loved ones, where they would be greeted with a bright hello and sweet smile.
Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, John, of almost 60 years. She thought of him each and every day, and talked with him, telling him how things were, whether good or bad. Barbara loved reading, talk radio, animals, including impossible cats and overbearing dogs, and tasting a bit of everything at restaurants (buffet dinners lasted forever!).
John and Barbara’s 8 children are Jon (Beverly), Steven (Jan), Renee (Ryan), April (Kenny), May (James), June, Greg (Laurie), and Ian (Kristy). Preceding Barbara in death were two of her grandchildren Mathew J. McCracken and Aaron Carter McCracken.
A private family viewing will be held on Wednesday September 7th from 10:00 to 11:00am at the Debo Funeral Home in Fulton, Missouri. Graveside service and dedication will be in Hillcrest Cemetery following the private family viewing. Bishop Gary Nevels will dedicate the grave.
In lieu of flowers, please consider sharing a uplifting story with someone, whether written or verbal, be it present or past. Barbara reveled in them, and would like them to be shared. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.debofuneralhome.com.
