Barbara Ayers

Barbara Ann Ayers, 84, of Poplar Bluff, MO, passed away on Wednesday, August 09, 2023, in Arkadelphia, Arkansas.

Barbara was born on October 23, 1938, to George and Ruby (Welch) Schalk in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.

Barbara was a devout Christian. She was an active, long-time member of Rombauer General Baptist Church. She later attended Calvary Community Church. Barb enjoyed singing and playing guitar in Black Light Public Ministries as well as within her congregations. She was an avid reader and enjoyed writing short stories and gospel music in her spare time. She also enjoyed square dancing and league bowling. Barb was a social butterfly and enjoyed helping others in any way she could. She worked at Smiley Container for 32 years and was later a towboat cook for Marquette Transportation for around 10 years. Barb was a hard worker and always made sure her family was provided for, no matter the cost. Her greatest joy in life was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Barbara is survived by one daughter, Peggy (Laymond Green) Watson Walker; four sisters, June Yearwood, Betty Schalk, Cassie (Charlie) Smith, and Linda (Gary) Chapman; two grandsons, Robert (Tina) Green and Joshua Walker; one bonus granddaughter, Kathy; eight great-grandchildren; two great-great-granddaughters; along with numerous extended family members and friends.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Carol Watson; two sons, Ricky and Darrell Watson; two sisters, Ethel Callow and Mary Bausworth; one brother, Tom Schalk.

Visitation will be held on Monday, August 21, 2023, from 10:00-11:00am at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services. Funeral service will follow beginning at 11:00am with Pastor Scott Wilkerson officiating. Burial will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery.