Barbara Jean Birkes

Barbara Warren Birkes was born on June 28, 1935 in Waco, Texas to Herbert Weldon and Corinne Day Warren. The family lived in Lorena, Tx. Barbara was the youngest of four children; Allene Warren Pack, Margaret Warren Blanton, and Herbert Weldon Warren II.

Barbara completed her bachelor’s degree from Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton, Texas in 1957. She later received her master’s degree from Sam Houston State University. Barbara began her career in Houston where she met David. The couple were married on August 25, 1960. They purchased their first home in Oak Forest and had two children, Emma and Dale. The family later moved to Jersey Village.

Barbara joined Cypress Fairbanks Independent School District in 1962, where she began teaching at Lamkin Elementary. She then moved to Bane Elementary where she became Assistant Principal. She was named Principal at Post Elementary and later moved to Jowell Elementary to open the school. She retired from the district in 1994. Barbara dedicated her life to her work and her students. Everyone that knew Barbara can tell you that she was passionate about her love of teaching. She was proud to be a part of Cypress Fairbanks ISD and would always tell you “Cy-Fair is the best”. She was most honored when the school district recognized her for her service and hard work by naming an elementary school after her.

David and Barbara spent time planning and going on trips with their friends. Over the years, they made many friends and saw many sites. At home, Barbara loved reading, working crossword puzzles, shopping and having lunch with her friends. She also served on the Mary Hardin-Baylor Alumni Association. She continued to give back to the school district by serving on the Cy-Fair Education Foundation. She also enjoyed visits to Birkes Elementary. David and Barbara were active members in several churches throughout their life together. Barbara sang in the church choir. At one time she enjoyed playing the handbells with a group of church friends. She also served on numerous committees.

Barbara is survived by her daughter, Emma McLachlan and husband, Charles, of Houston; daughter in-law, Melinda Birkes of Trinity; grandchildren, Ashley Findlay and husband, Ryan, Kyle McLachlan, Daniel McLachlan, Sarah Birkes and Connor Birkes. She has one great grandson, Alex Findlay and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Corrine Warren; husband David Birkes; son, Dale Birkes; sisters, Allene Pack and Margaret Blanton; brother, Herb Warren II.