Barbara June McGowen's Obituary
Barbara June McGowen, a beloved member of the Tulsa community, passed away on October 6, 2023, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity. She was born on September 11, 1936, in Tulsa to Rolland Chesleton Ormsbee and May Florence (Dudley) Ormsbee. Barbara spent her childhood in Barnsdall, Oklahoma, before moving to Tulsa in the 1940s, where she graduated from Central High School.
On September 2, 1984, Barbara married the love of her life, Barre Lee McGowen, and they shared many wonderful years together. She was known for her zest for life and her passion for learning and making friends wherever she went. Barbara had a love for travel and quilting, and her quilts brought comfort to many, as she generously donated them to the Police Department to be given to children in difficult circumstances.
Barbara was a faithful member of the Broken Arrow Church of Christ and had a strong connection to her faith community. Throughout her life, she worked in the banking industry, serving with dedication and integrity. She held positions at First National Bank of Tulsa, Mid-Continent Casualty, and even ventured to Honolulu in the late '80s, where she worked for the Bank of Hawaii. Her time in Hawaii deepened her appreciation for the culture, the year-round flowers, and she even learned to perform the authentic hula dance.
After her successful career in banking, Barbara later retired from the Tulsa Health Department, marking a fulfilling chapter in her life. Her retirement allowed her to focus on her passions and spend more time with her family and friends.
Barbara is survived by her loving children and their spouses: Katherine M Witt and Clem Witt, and son David M Schuttler and Kellie Schuttler. She was a devoted grandmother to Larry Schuttler, Melinda Witt, Rex Schuttler, Ezra Witt, Amber Arrendondo, Teresa Leikvold, James Schuttler, Kloe Schuttler, Coty Robertson, Dakota Hardman, and Trace Hardman. Barbara was also blessed with numerous great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Doris Velador.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Rolland and May Ormsbee, and her husband, Barre Lee McGowen.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Baptist Village in Broken Arrow, a reflection of Barbara's compassionate and giving spirit.
Barbara June McGowen will be remembered for her warmth, her love of life, and her dedication to her family and community. Her legacy of generosity, kindness, and the beautiful quilts she created will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
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