Obituary for
Barbara Jean Watson (Kipp)
Barbara Watson, born January 3, 1939, passed peacefully to God’s continued care on August 13, 2018. Predeceased by her loving parents, Frank and Lillian Kipp, Jr.. Survived by her best-friend-forever twin, Beverly (Jim) Ortigara and beloved nephew, James Jr., cherished daughter Tina (Kendall) Miller and two treasured grandchildren, Zoe and Lily, much loved step-children Linda (Al) Brif, Steve (Ingrid) Watson and Rick (Linda) Watson and step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Barbara is remembered for her sense of humor, generous heart, loving soul, and acceptance of others, often putting the needs of others before her own. She was a dear friend to many - thoughtful, kind, and supportive.
Barbara showed strength and resilience many times over during her lifetime, modeling that peace is found through accepting what one is given, and turning that in to a positive as one moves ever forward. Barbara was a warrior when challenged by a chemical imbalance, and later survived a diagnosis of breast cancer, with metastatic lung cancer her final engagement. She approached treatment regimens with acceptance, faith, and humor, trusting the outcomes to a higher power.
Artistic and creative, handmade items were infused with her talent and love for each recipient. Barbara enjoyed the outdoors, bowling, sewing, gardening, and people watching. Barbara’s quiet generosity was seen in her outreach of time and donations to Veterans, Kids with Cancer, and sponsorship of under-privileged children both locally and internationally. Faith-filled and a child of God, her actions were a role model for others and spoke louder than words of her commitment to Christ.
Memorial service and Celebration of Life to be held October 20; all friends and family welcome. Family extends their gratitude to the caring staff at St. Luke’s Hospital, Surrey Place, St. Luke’s Hospice, Mari de Villa, and Manchester United Methodist Church. Donations can be made to either Manchester United Methodist Church of Manchester, Missouri, or Grand Avenue United Methodist Church of Hot Springs, Arkansas.
Goodnight, Friends and Family. Toodles!