Barbara Jean Fenton

Barbara Jean Fenton, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Monday, December 29, 2025, at the age of 77. Barbara had an affinity for purple and butterflies, symbols of her vibrant spirit and love of life. In honoring her wishes, the family invited all who loved her to wear purple to her Celebration of Life, which was held at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, Missouri, on Friday, January 2, 2026. Memorial donations are suggested to American Liver Foundation or the National Kidney Foundation.

Born on December 13, 1948, in Salina, Kansas, she was the daughter of Wallace Warren Benson and Rosann Marie (Gustafson) Benson. Barbara's journey through life was marked by her unwavering love for her family and her warm, nurturing spirit. On July 21, 1968, Barbara married the love of her life, Don Fenton, at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church in Harrisonville, Missouri. Throughout her life, she embraced her roles with grace and joy, showing her dedication to her family and community. Barbara graduated from Harrisonville High School with the Class of 1966 and later pursued a career in cosmetology, earning her certification from Fashion Beauty School in 1974. Although she began her career as a cosmetologist, she ventured into running an in-home daycare and later working as a bank teller, ultimately finding her passion as a pharmacy technician, where she dedicated many years before retiring.

Barbara's heart was wide open for others. She was an active member of Women's Aglow and took great pride in her role as a Girl Scout leader, imparting her love and knowledge to future generations. Her adventurous spirit led her to embrace the great outdoors, cherishing moments spent camping and traveling, especially to Alaska and Germany. However, nothing brought her more joy than the gatherings with family and friends at her favorite restaurants, Cracker Barrel and Red Lobster.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Don Fenton; her sister, Paula Kohler; and her grandson, Derek Reynolds. She leaves behind a legacy of love, leaving behind her three children: Doug Fenton; Deana (Gabe) Dalton; and Diana (Zachary) Harding; her brother, Stan Benson; 14 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and one great-grandchild on the way. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.