Barbara Ann Burdette

Barbara Ann Burdette, 75, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, family devotion, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. She was born on June 1, 1950, in Nevada, Missouri, to Charles and Ethel Hickman. Barbara graduated from high school in Schell City, Missouri. On June 7, 1968, she married Freddie Helsley, and from this union she was blessed with a daughter. Later in life, Barbara married Gary Richard Burdette on December 22, 1989, and gained a stepson whom she welcomed as her own. Throughout her life, Barbara held various jobs and was known for her strong work ethic. Among her many roles, she worked in bookkeeping at Republic Ford dealership, where her reliability and dedication were well respected. She was never afraid of hard work and spent many hours hauling hay and tending to the responsibilities of daily life. Barbara enjoyed fishing and hunting, loved vehicles of all kinds, and was an avid reader. She also took great pride in her very impressive collection of Barbie dolls, which reflected her eye for detail and brought her much enjoyment. One of her greatest joys was watching her granddaughters compete in rodeo, a pastime she proudly supported and deeply cherished. Barbara is survived by her husband Gary; daughter Trish (Eric) Ghan; stepson Barry (Laura) Burdette; grandchildren Mackenzie and Morgan Ghan and Evan and Lane Burdette; and sisters Patti (Kelly) Russell and Kathy (Doug) Reynolds, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Ethel Hickman, and her first husband, Freddie Edward Helsley. A graveside service will be at 1:00 PM, Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at Dishman Cemetery in Strafford, Missouri. Arrangements are under the direction of Meadors Funeral Home, 314 N. Main St, Republic, MO 65738, 417-732-2535. Online condolences can be made at www.meadorsfuneralhome.com To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara, please visit our floral store.