Barbara Poole Whatley

If you knew Barbara, you loved her. For her kindness, her wit, and her unfiltered honesty. She always spoke her mind, whether you were ready to hear it or not, and her sense of humor was something you either loved, or just got used to.

Barbara never fully realized just how deeply she was loved. We only wish she could have read the beautiful memories & words everyone has shared about her before she passed.

To know her was to love her, and we will miss loving her every single day.

Many of you came to know her as “Bounce Back Barb,” a nickname she earned over the years due to her resilience and ability to overcome obstacles that most could never endure. And she certainly lived up to that name. Time and time again, she faced life’s challenges and came back fighting.

We never thought the day would come when she wouldn’t bounce back—but this time she was ready to give in. She was tired, and she longed to be with her Tommy.

Barbara was an extraordinary teacher whose impact is still felt by her former students.

She was a fiercely loyal friend, a devoted wife, and a proud mother to her only son, Bryan Whatley. She took immense pride in her grandchildren, treasuring every moment as she watched them grow into men and loved seeing her little great grandson Ollie when she could.

Though she called many places home from Florida, Uvalde, San Antonio, Montell, and Mount Pleasant—Barbara built friendships that have lasted a lifetime.

She spent her final years surrounded by dear friends in San Antonio enjoying her best life.

Our sweet Barbara leaves behind countless family members and friends who will carry her memory in their hearts. While we mourn her loss, we take comfort in knowing that she has been reunited with her beloved Tom.

As per her wishes, there will be no formal service, we will be having a celebration of her life Instead, (date to be announced) in the meantime she would love for you to raise a glass and toast to a life well lived. Barbara was truly blessed, and so were we to have had her in our lives.