Barbara Trainer

Barbara Ann Trainer, age 77, died Friday, August 10, 2012, at her home in Temple, Texas, from complications of pancreatic cancer. Barbara was born on December 2, 1934, in Austin, Texas, to Theodore Edward Artz and Esther Richter Artz. She spent her childhood in Austin, Texas, and graduated from Austin High School in 1953. On July 17, 1954, she married her high school sweetheart, Doug Trainer, and remained his bride until her death over 58 years later. While in Austin Barbara was an accounting clerk for Southwestern Bell Telephone and was active in the women's ministries of Austin Trinity Methodist Church. Doug and Barbara moved to Temple in 1962 where Barbara immediately became involved in her church and numerous civic and charitable organizations. Barbara was a Past President of the Temple Garden Club and a member of the Temple and Academy I.S.D. Parent-Teacher Organizations, Temple City Federation, Literary Review Club, Avalonte Study Club and Salado Art Guild. Barbara held a special place in her heart for First United Methodist Church in Temple, where she donated countless hours of time to the United Methodist Women's group, the Dawson Class and many other church activities, including singing in the Church Choir. Most who knew Barbara were aware of her artistic gifts and only a lucky few received one of her unique paintings, ceramic pieces, or stained glass. However, most who knew Barbara were not aware that she was an accomplished accordion player, a talent which she picked up as a child but did not continue later in life. Her hobbies included baking, gardening, sewing, and antiquing. Above all, Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and Christian. She is survived by her husband, Douglas Lewis Trainer; daughter Cindi Lee of Temple; son Gordon Trainer and wife, Cindy, of Temple; and daughter Jana Secrest and husband, Jamey, of Temple. Her grandchildren, who were the light of her life, include: Christi Lee and Chelsea Lee of Temple; Kali Trainer of College Station; Emily Trainer of San Marcos; Brice Trainer of Temple; Preston Secrest and Tinsley Secrest of Temple. Barbara is also survived by five younger siblings, Teddy Artz, Shirley Ferguson, Patsy Hardin, Linda Kutil and Tommy Artz. After a private graveside service, a memorial service celebrating Barbara's life will be held on Monday, August 13, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Temple, Texas. The family has suggested that any memorials be made to the First United Methodist Church in Temple.