Barbara Jennings was a remarkable woman—vibrant, strong, and full of love. Born on March 5, 1941, she lived each of her 84 years with purpose, joy, and a heart wide open to others. She didn’t just meet people—she connected with them, often turning strangers into lifelong friends in a single conversation. Whether on a cruise ship, at church, or in line at a store, Barbara had a gift for making people feel seen, known, and loved.
Barbara’s legacy is one of faith and resilience. In her own words, “God walks with me 24/7.” Her life was a testament to that faith—she believed in the power of a hand-up, not a handout, and she gave that same grace and encouragement to others throughout her life.
She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her three sons were her pride—each one a man of character, surrounded by loving families of their own. She adored her daughters-in-law and grandchildren and often said that her family was her greatest blessing.
Her life was rich with friendships, including a treasured group of “3 a.m. friends” who stood by her side for over 25 years. They played bridge, traveled together, and supported one another through every season of life. Barbara also found community in her church, Bible studies, and anywhere she went—her ability to form bonds was nothing short of extraordinary.
Barbara wore many hats over the years: she was a teacher, home builder, skip tracer, model, fashion consultant, and writer. She taught everywhere from the inner-city schools of New Mexico to Marcus High School and the Lewisville Learning Center. No matter what role she stepped into, she did so with grace, passion, and the firm belief that life was meant to be fully lived.
She once described her own story as an “extraordinary ordinary life,” and that captures her perfectly. She married her best friend—her husband, cheerleader, and fellow adventurer—and together they raised a family, moved 107 times across 19 states, faced hardship, built financial security, and made beautiful memories along the way. Friday nights were spent listening to music and simply enjoying each other's company.
Barbara’s later years were marked by deep contentment. She enjoyed good health, loved tending her garden, writing, playing games, and—most of all—meeting new people. She carried no grudges, no anger, and no regrets. Her life, as she said, was “a God-directed series of roadblocks and detours” that led to a cup overflowing with gratitude.
She lived joyfully, loved unconditionally, and believed deeply. She invited others into that joy, always pointing to God’s blessings, never forgetting to say, “Thank you, God, for all of Your many, many blessings!”
Barbara Jennings was truly one of a kind—and her life will continue to inspire everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Barbara is survived by sons, Ray Jennings and wife Audrey of Atlus, Oklahoma, Bart Jennings and wife Lori of Arlington, Texas, Don Jennings and wife Nancy of McKinney, Texas; sister-in-law, Jeri Nutt of Duncan, Oklahoma; granddaughter, Crystal Stephens and husband Casey of Brock, Texas; grandsons, Trey Jennings and wife, Heather of Guyton, Georgia, Wesley Cross of Brock, Texas, Dr. Nicolaus Jennings of Arlington, Texas, Will Jennings of McKinney, Texas, Ryan Jennings of McKinney, Texas; seven great-grandchildren; and a host of other numerous loving family and friends.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Ken Jennings, and her brother, Don Nutt.
A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Friday, May 30, 2025, at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, Texas 75211.
A reception will follow from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Crossroads Bible Church, 8101 Justin Road, Double Oak, Texas 75077.
Family and friends are invited to the funeral home at their convenience on Thursday to pay their respects and to sign the register book.