Barbara Oxendine

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Barbara June Oxendine, age 90 of Joplin, Mo., went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, November 15, 2017 at Joplin Gardens Nursing Home.

Barbara was born on September 19, 1927 in Stella, Mo., the daughter of Charles and Mildred (Eaton) Millard. She has been a lifetime area resident, Barbara worked as a payroll clerk for Eagle Picher. Barbara later worked at Macy’s Department Store and Newton’s Jewelers in downtown Joplin. She was a founding member of the Joplin First Free Will Baptist Church, 2301 Connecticut Ave., organized in 1953 with nine members present. Barbara was the last surviving member of that group. The church later became Generations Free Will Baptist Church. She was a deacon’s wife for 39 years and a lifelong active member, serving in many capacities, always wanting to serve the Lord.

She married Fred Oxendine on July 12, 1947 in Stella. He preceded her in death on March 18, 2006. Barbara is survived by a son; Lynn Oxendine and wife Kristy of Joplin, a daughter; Susan Stevens and husband Giltner of Joplin, two granddaughters; Lauren Patton and husband Elijah of Taiwan, Paige Oxendine of Springfield, Mo. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, parents and by a sister, Geraldine Davidson.

Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Friday, November 17, 2017 at the Mason-Woodard Chapel. Dr. Tim Eaton and Pastor Jerald Bass, will officiate. Burial will follow at Jones Chapel Freewill Baptist Cemetery, Stella, Mo.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Generations Free Will Baptist Church in care of the mortuary.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.