Barbara was a graduate of Henderson High School and spent many years working at The Heart Institute before retiring. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—traveling, studying the Bible, reading, coloring, quilting, and playing games on her phone and tablet. Above all, she treasured the time she spent with her family.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 45 years, Ray Leake; her daughter, Cindy Draper; her son, Scott Draper; and her parents.
Barbara is survived by her daughter, Patti Draper of Lufkin; daughter-in-law, Teri Draper of Carthage; stepdaughters, Jody Brown of Houston and Rae Ann Buford of Willis; and her grandchildren, Amanda Spurger and husband Johnny of White Oak, Michael Williams of White Oak, Chris Williams of Gladewater, Amber Dyson of Carthage, Ashley Porter and husband Russ of Gary, and Wayne Williams and wife Kacy of Plano; and 16 great-grandchildren.
The family extends special thanks to Harbor Hospice for their compassionate care.
Visitation will be held Friday, February 27, 2026, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Elwyn M. Gipson Memorial Chapel at Garden of Memories Memorial Park in Lufkin, followed immediately by a Celebration of Barbara’s Life at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Barbara’s name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
