Barbara Jean Thomas, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026, in Independence, Missouri. Born on February 25, 1931, in Saint Joseph, Missouri, Barbara graced this world with her presence for 95 remarkable years.

Barbara devoted her life to caring for her loving family and their home. She was a true embodiment of dedication and found her greatest joy in nurturing those she held dearest. Her proudest accomplishment was her family. Especially treasured was her relationship with her beloved husband, G. L. (Tom); together, they were the perfect pair, adoring each other with every fiber of their beings. Outside of her devotion to family, Barbara enjoyed playing card games, working on crossword and jigsaw puzzles, spending time at the Lake of the Ozarks and watching the University of Kansas basketball team and the Kansas City Royals. Although she had an interest in plants, she humbly acknowledged that she did not possess a green thumb. Barbara embraced life with a positive attitude and graceful acceptance, and her optimism was a guiding light through all circumstances. Even during her time under hospice care, Barbara remained fiercely independent, demonstrating her strength and resilience until the end.

Barbara's passing is preceded by her parents, William "Brady" and Ruby Duncan; her beloved husband and best friend of 72 blissful years, Gaylord "G.L." Thomas; and her sisters, Beverly Kongs and Nancy Croner. Her legacy of love lives on through her daughter, Gayle Hopkins (Bob); her grandchildren, Becca Hopkins and Brad Hopkins, as well as three nieces and one nephew.

A visitation to honor and remember Barbara will be held on March 23, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Speaks Suburban Chapel, located at 18020 East 39th Street South in Independence, Missouri. Her interment will be on March 24, 2026 at 11:00 at Floral Hills East Cemetery in Lee’s Summit, MO.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Barbara’s memory to Hospice by John Knox Village. Click here to donate