ST. JOHN — Barbara L. Watson was born on Feb, 6, 1931, in Seymour, Mo., to Rudy and Rachel Schroeder and gained her heavenly wings on Oct. 9, 2015. Barbara graduated from Seymour High School in 1948 and married Herman Watson on May 23, 1948. A short time later they moved to St. John to make their home. On June 22, 1953, Barbara welcomed her first son, Rudy. A child with physical disabilities, Rudy brought so much joy into her life. Two years later on June 22, a second son, Randy, was born. A third son, Rex, was added to the family in 1964. After her mother became ill, Barbara welcomed her baby brother, Charles Schroeder, into her home and raised him as another son.
Being one of eight children, Barbara grew up without luxuries. She often referred to herself as a frugal German for her thrifty tendencies. She began her lifelong journey of hard work at an early age. She grew up with a needle and thread in her hand. She was such a talented seamstress. Over the years she made countless garments for individuals and an equally large number of quilts for herself and others. Born with a green thumb, Barbara raised large vegetable gardens and delighted in her beautiful roses. A good friend and neighbor to so many people, Barbara enjoyed preparing meals for anyone who dropped by see her. With an immeasurable amount of energy, Barbara worked daily from the time she rose until the time she retired.  
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 59 years, Herman; son Rudy Watson; sisters Georgie Bayes, Evelyn Lockard, Meriam Barnes; brother Charles Schroeder. She is survived by sons Randy (May) Watson, of St. John, and Rex Watson of Peabody; granddaughters Trudy Watson of Great Bend, Kaci (Bennett) Sattler, of Halstead, Pam Watson (Justin Claussen), Kwan Watson; two grandsons Tim (Tyra) Streck and Champ Watson; great-granddaughters Alexandria Streck and Elsa Sattler; great-grandson Vaughn Streck; brother Fred Schroeder of Seymour, Mo.; sisters Carlie (Bill) Cooper of Republic, Mo. and Carol Ussery of Marshfield, Mo.; sister-in-law Sunee Schroeder; a neighbor who was like a son, John Fox; numerous nieces and nephews as well as a host of friends.  
Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13, at Minnis Chapel in St. John. Burial will follow at the Fairview Park Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the First Southern Baptist Church or Sunflower Diversified Services both in care of the funeral home.

Funeral arrangements provided by
Minnis Chapel**
P.O. Box 34; 526 E. 4th Ave.
St. John, KS 67576
Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Oct. 13, 2015