Barbara Ann Knife

Barbara was born in Fulton, MO the daughter of the late Paris and Edna (Corvey) Guerrant who preceded her in death. Three years later she was blessed with a sister, Helen, who was not only a sweet little sister but a lifelong best friend.

In 1949, Barbara married the love of her life, Russell Lee Knife. They had three children, Larry Knife (Linda), Linda Anderson (Keith Kottwitz) and David Knife (Carrie). Barbara and Russell enjoyed many happy years together before his passing in 1994.

In addition to three children and their spouses, Barbara is survived by two grandchildren, Emily Anderson and Alex Knife; sister Helen Smart; niece, Kathy Gerlach (Russell) and nephews, john Smart (Corrine). She was also preceded in death by her stepfather, K.E. (Dad) Magruder and her brother-in-law, Richard Smart.

Barbara led a full and busy life. In addition to providing a happy and healthy home life for her husband and children, she was an administrative assistant for Fulton Public Schools and Westminster College. She was a 1949 graduate of Fulton High School and a member of the First Baptist Church in Fulton, MO. Barbara worked part-time in the business office at Callaway Hospital for three years during high school.

Barbara’s fondest memories were of time spent with family and friends. Many stories have been told about the camping trips and vacations where Barbara and Russell loaded up the kids and took off across the country. After the kids were raised, she and Russell did some traveling on their own and belonged to a square dance club.

Barbara loved family reunions, cousin lunches, church dinners and any reason to get the family together and share good food. She never refused an invitation to eat lunch or dinner at a local restaurant.

Anyone who knew Barbara knew that she was soft-spoken, wise and eager to help others. She had a great sense of humor and was devoted to her family. She will be missed.

Visitation will be from 10:00 am – 11:00 am on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Debo Funeral Home in Fulton, MO. Funeral service will follow at 11:00 am at the funeral home with Pastor Brad Kerr officiating. Burial will be in Callaway Memorial Gardens in Fulton, MO.