|
| |
Barbara Anne (Craig) Bryant Ames, a beloved 94-year-old resident of Mooreland, OK, peacefully departed for her eternal heavenly abode on April 27, 2024. Most recently, she resided at the Teal Creek Senior Living Center in Edmond, OK. Barbara was renowned for her unwavering devotion to Christ, her unwavering loyalty and love as a dedicated wife, her unparalleled warmth and care as a mother, the epitome of an extraordinary Granny, a cherished friend to her daughter LaNae and many others , a compassionate mentor and surrogate mother figure to many, a devoted sister, daughter, and aunt. She was also recognized as a diligent worker, a delightful card player, and so much more. The Celebration of Life Service in her honor will take place on Saturday, May 4th, at 11 am at the First Baptist Church in Mooreland, OK.
Barbara held a deep affection for her community and the congregation where she worshipped and served faithfully. She entered this world on February 2, 1930, welcomed by Ernest Nathan and Nettie "Juanita" Marvin Craig in the setting of Trail (Flats) at the E. N. Craig Family homestead, situated to the north of Leedey, OK. Her formative years unfolded in Trail, where she engaged in elementary education before advancing to high school in Leedey. An enthusiastic participant in the community, Barbara actively contributed to the Leedey First Baptist Church. Fond memories painted her youth, from spirited basketball games to her involvement in 4-H, FHA, church activities, and the daily chores on the Ranch Farm alongside her parents.
Following her high school graduation in 1947, Barbara embarked on her academic journey at Oklahoma A&M University, later known as Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, OK. She earned a degree in Home Economy, a field later redefined as Human Environmental Science. Throughout her university days, she immersed herself in various groups and activities, cherishing moments as a residential adviser (RA) in her dormitories, Cordell and Willard. Barbara also actively participated in the Baptist Student Union (BSU) and engaged with her local Stillwater church community.
Upon receiving her Bachelor of Science Degree in the spring of 1951, Barbara exchanged vows with her college sweetheart, Ernest E. Bryant of Lexington, OK. The ceremony took place on May 28, 1951, at FBC in Leedey, OK. The couple settled in Sargent, NE, where Barbara assumed the role of Home Economy Teacher at the local High School and took charge as the sponsor for FHA. Then on to BoiseCity, OK Cimarron Co Home Demonstration Agent. Their union was blessed with the arrival of their first son, Lloyd Ernest Bryant, born on February 14, 1954. Tragically, Ernest succumbed to cancer after a valiant year-long battle on September 4, 1955. Barbara returned to Oklahoma with her 18-month-old son and commenced a new chapter, accepting a position with the Oklahoma State Extension Service as the Agent for Woodward County. Mother and son made their home in Woodward, OK.
During her time in Woodward, Barbara forged a deep friendship with Eileen, who eventually introduced her to her brother, Bud Ames. Bud, a sports enthusiast like Barbara and actively engaged in his local church, caught her attention. Barbara and J. Alan "Bud" Ames united in matrimony on April 15, 1960, in a heartfelt ceremony at Crown Heights Baptist Church in Woodward, OK. Lloyd, at the age of 6, was happily adopted on May 5, 1960, becoming Lloyd Ernest Ames. Barbara and Bud's union endured for 63 years until Bud's peaceful passing on September 4, 2023. Their family expanded with the addition of a son, Lance Alan, in 1965, and a daughter, LaNae Marie, in 1967. Barbara embraced each grandchild with overwhelming joy, marking their arrivals with dedicated week-long visits to her children's homes. Her heart overflowed with happiness as great-grandchildren joined the family circle.
Barbara was deeply engaged as an Agent, collaborating with rural ranch wives involved in various clubs such as Northern Stars, Work and Play Club, among many others, cherishing the bond she shared with these remarkable women. Her heart thrived in the presence of community members and fellow worshippers. An unwavering servant, she dedicated herself to teaching and supporting women of all backgrounds-single, widowed, or those navigating life independently while seeking a deeper connection with Christ as their guiding light.
Her fervor for teaching blossomed into initiatives such as the "Beginnings" Tuesday Bible Study tailored for young mothers and the "Solos" women's Bible study welcoming solitary attendees seeking spiritual enrichment. Barbara possessed a profound empathy for the challenges women encountered daily, drawing from her own experiences as a single mother in the 1950s after the loss of her spouse. Immersed in missions and ministries, she served diligently in the Women's Missionary Union, participated in pulpit search committees, tended to the nursery, and graciously hosted events ranging from showers to weddings to funerals, extending compassion to those affected by illness. Her involvement extended to diverse programs such as Team Kids, Step by Step church seniors ministry, and BYKOTA, an associational seniors group. She held a special place in her heart for the Tuesday Visitation Group, which brought solace and companionship to residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and those confined to their homes. Barbara's unwavering commitment to her own children's pursuits was evident as she attended to their needs and attended activities.
Barbara's insatiable thirst for knowledge fueled a life rich with continued learning and growth. Embracing the belief that one should never cease learning, she remained an active participant in her book clubs well into her 90s. At 92 years old, she delighted in the stimulating discussions sparked by the printed word, whether woven in the fabric of fiction or fantasy. Barbara found solace in the profound conversations that emerged from these literary explorations, providing a platform for new insights and a deeper understanding of the human experience. Her unwavering passion for reading led her to engage with the Woodard Public Library Book Club from 2015 onwards and immerse herself in the Let's Talk About Oklahoma book club, which celebrated Oklahoma authors as well as historical events.
As she journeys into heaven, Barbara is reunited with her beloved husband Bud Ames, her husband Earnest Bryant, her son Lance Ames, her parents Ernest and Juanita Craig, Frank and Bernice Ames, Uncle Willard and Aunt Marion Peach, and other cherished relatives. She leaves behind a legacy cherished by her son, Lloyd Ames, and Ann of Mooreland, OK; daughter LaNae Baker and Wayne of Edmond, OK; daughter-in-law, Dawn Ames of Amarillo, TX; claimed daughter, Beverly Kelting of Mooreland; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought joy to her life, Lyndsi Watts & Jason, Erin Sessions & Ryan, Craig Ames, Elisha Sessions, Dalton Hughes and Haylee, Jake Hughes, Corbi Treadwell, Gabriel Treadwell, Dustin McWilliams with Elsa, Alyssa Jenkins and JJ, Austin Baker, Brett and Kristen Baker. Great Grandchildren: Mykala Robertson and Noah, Jalyn Watts and Cole Watts.. Additionally, she is survived by her brother Richard Craig of Killeen, TX; brother-in-law Byron Ames and Deanna of Mooreland; sister-in-law Kathleen of Gage; and a multitude of beloved cousins, friends, and extended family members.
In honor of Barbara's memory, donations can be made to the FBC Mooreland Bus Fund in lieu of flowers.
This site may be freely linked, but not duplicated in any way without consent.
All rights reserved! Commercial use of material within this site is prohibited!
© 2000-2024 Oklahoma CemeteriesThe information on this site is provided free for the purpose of researching your genealogy. This material may be freely used by non-commercial entities, for your own research, as long as this message remains on all copied material. The information contained in this site may not be copied to any other site without written "snail-mail" permission. If you wish to have a copy of a donor's material, you must have their permission. All information found on these pages is under copyright of Oklahoma Cemeteries. This is to protect any and all information donated. The original submitter or source of the information will retain their copyright. Unless otherwise stated, any donated material is given to Oklahoma Cemeteries to make it available online. This material will always be available at no cost, it will always remain free to the researcher.