Barbara Beverly Maddex

Barbara Maddex, 90, of Columbia, MO passed away August 12, 2026, in Columbia at Caring Hearts and Hands Hospice. As per her wishes, she will be cremated with private family services. Family will receive friends from 11:30am-1pm on Saturday, August 22nd at Broadway Christian Church 2601 W Broadway Columbia, MO 65203.

Barb was born October 21, 1935, in St. Louis, MO to Wilbert and Norma Reichert Kerls. In 1953, she graduated from Jennings High School in St. Louis then moved to Kirksville where she earned a bachelor’s degree in English Literature and eventually a master’s degree in early childhood education from Northeast Missouri State Teachers College. She taught kindergarten for 16 years in Riverview Gardens School District in St. Louis. She and her husband, Jack, later owned and operated a grocery store and campground near Bennett Springs, MO for 17 years. She loved to read and liked to keep busy with DIY projects around her home.

She is survived by her children, Pam (Bobby) Baker of Columbia and Jeff (Becky) Maddex of Wichita, KS; grandchildren, Charlie Stephenson of Columbia and Ryan (Lysel) & Jordyn Maddex of Wichita; three nieces, two nephews, and a loving extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis “Jack” Maddex; brother, Jack Kerls and her parents.

Memorial donations can be made to Caring Hearts and Hands of Columbia 1307 W Broadway, Columbia, MO 65203.

Condolences and fond memories can be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com