Barbara Anthony
Obituary
Barbara Lou (Koonce ) Anthony , 78, of Tulsa, went peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, July 30, 2011. She was born March 22, 1933 in Prescott, Arizona to Oren Fillman and Mary Sue (Green) Koonce.
Barbara was raised in Tulsa where she graduated from Central High School in 1951. She attended the University of Oklahoma and pledged Chi Omega sorority. She married Jack Heredia Anthony, Jr. in 1952 and he preceded her in death on January 14, 2006. Barbara was a committed Christian and an active member of Asbury United Methodist Church where she sang in the Chancel Choir and played hand bells.
She is survived by her daughter, Janie Anthony Shiel (Mike) of Scottsdale, AZ; her sons, Jack H. Anthony, III of St. Helena, CA, Jeffrey Alan Anthony (Jean) of Plano, TX and Joseph Michael Anthony of Las Vegas, NV; and her seven grandchildren, Brian and Kelli Simms (AZ), Sam and Tyler Anthony (CA) and Katie, Ben and Carrie Anthony (TX). She was also preceded in death by her brother, Terry Koonce.
Barbara lived a full, active life and was known for her vivacious spirit, laughter, kindness, generosity, and loving, caring heart. She always said that in order to have a good friend, you first had to be a good friend, and she had a lot of good friends. The family would like to express their gratitude and appreciation for all the love and support expressed by her friends during her final journey. Barbara was a blessing to everyone who knew her and she will be greatly missed by her loving family and many friends.
A memorial service celebrating her life is Wednesday, Aug. 3rd, 11:00 a.m., Asbury United Methodist Church Mason Chapel.
The family requests that memorials be made to Youth Missions at Asbury United Methodist Church, 6767 S. Mingo, Tulsa, OK 74133
Events
Tributes & Memories
Barbara was always youthful, optimistic and fun loving. When she visited Joe on the west coast she accepted his crazy buddies-including me- for who they were and never had a bad thing to say about anyone. I’ll remember her as a keen listener who stayed involved and truly cared about other people’s lives and someone who embodied the true meaning of being self actualized. My warmest thoughts and prayers to all of her family and friends as they honor her life and mourn her passing. Steve Hershenson in Los Angeles
Steve Hershenson
Dear Jeff, Janie, Jack and Joe, Oh the loss--I know it well, but the love, the tender words of guidance, the wisdom and laughter is what you'll remember and what will keep you holding your head high. Your mom was the sweetest, kindest and most authentic person I've had the privilege of knowing. Her smile--a smile that could melt away a thousand worries and fill you up with love. I pray that you find her light shining in all the goodness and beauty that comes your way. I know she and your dad and my dad must all be together now setting up a card table, a good joke or dancing to some fabulous music. May the memories of all the good times soon be stronger than the heartbreak of missing her. My love and deepest sympathy to you all. Lucy
Lucy Anderson
I was sorry to read, in the Tulsa World this morning, of your loved one's death. I remember Ms. Anthony as a lovely person--as a wife, mother, friend and Christian. Please accept my sincere condolences and may the Lord bless you with the peace that passes all understanding. Your Friend from Memorial HS----Coach Roberts
Coach Roberts
Dear Jeff, Janie, Jack and Joe, SEnding you hugs of healing as you celebrate the awesome life of your mother. She came in a small package but had such a loving/huge heart and a wonderfully memorable smile and laugh. She never saw you that she didn't stop to see how you were and I will forever remember her coming to mom's house with coffee and fixings for several days when dad died in 04. She knew exactly what was needed. Peace in your hearts as you hold special memories and share them with family and friends today and all your tomorrows. HUgs, Ginny
Ginny Williams Jackson
Lots of great memories of Mrs. Anthony growing up across the street from them. My thoughts and prayers are with Jack, Jeff, Janie, and Joe.
Bob Staab
Barbara was one of the sweetest best ladies I have had the pleasure of knowing, she will be greatly missed but she is now reunited with Jack and whole again!
Brenda Dill