Barbara Leigh Pruett Barnwell's Obituary
Barbara Leigh Pruett Barnwell of The Woodlands left this life on Friday, August 27, 2004. Barbara was a native of Longview, where she has family and many long time friends. She was a graduate of Longview High School, attended East Texas State University, and graduated from Dallas Baptist University.
Throughout her life, Barbara treasured and maintained many deep and long-lasting friendships, born of a genuine interest in others. She made sure her friends knew how important they were to her, whether from her years as a Lobo Cheerleader and class beauty or from golfing buddies, co-workers, or friends from chance encounters. Every friend felt accurately, that Barbara cared personally about him or her. Her bright smile and sincere greetings enlivened every gathering and could warm the coldest heart.
Family, too, formed a center of Barbara's life. Married in 1993 to her high school classmate, Chal Barnwell, Barbara was the "sparkplug" of family gatherings. She is survived by her love and soulmate, Chal Barnwell, and by stepchildren Ellie Barnwell and Cooper Barnwell, both of Houston. She is also survived by her parents, Les and Kay Pruett of Longview, brothers and sisters Clint Pruett and wife Connie of Dallas, Susan Pruett of Spicewood, Paul Dunlap of Virginia, Kay Moseley and husband Sam of Marshall, and Kevin Blackmon and wife Amy of Tyler. Also surviving are nephew Madison Moseley and wife Cami of Southlake, and nieces Karis Vann and husband Mark of Sharpsburg, Georgia, and Kimberly Blackmon of Tyler. She was prececed in death by her mother, Rogna Jane "Toni" Dunlap.
Barbara was employed with Bowater Industries in Chicago, Illinois, prior to returning to Texas in 1985 to be administrative assistant to the Regional Administrator of the U.S. Enviornmental Protection Agency. After moving to The Woodlands in 1996, she was involved in community and social activities, as well as Bible Studies which deepened her faith and understanding of God. She attended Trinity Episcopal Church of The Woodlands, where she was recently confirmed. She adhered to Jesus' instruction to demonstrate love, and to reach out to the unloved around her. Her tender heart was evident to even the most casual observer. Barbara loved unreservedly and her life reflects that love, as do the many tributes from those who knew her.
Rector Kevin Whitmire will conduct funeral services at the Chapel of Rader Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 1, following a memorial service Tuesday at Trinity Episcopal Church in The Woodlands. The family will receive friends Tuesday evening from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Private burial will follow at Rosewood Park Cemetery in Longview.
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