Barbara Ariel Sollock

Barbara Ariel Briley Sollock, age 80, entered into the presence of her Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 13, 2026. Born on January 23, 1946, in Tyler, Texas, Barbara was the youngest child of Ariel and Mildred Briley. Tyler always held a special place in her heart, and she often reminisced with joy about her childhood there.

Barbara graduated from John Tyler High School in 1964. She continued her education at Tyler Junior College before transferring to Baylor University, where she earned her degree in 1968. Soon after graduation, she moved to Houston to begin her career in elementary education-a calling that reflected her gentle spirit and love for children.

While in Houston, Barbara met Paul Emory Sollock on a blind date. That simple introduction blossomed into a lifelong story, and they were married on September 13, 1969.

Barbara taught for several years before stepping away from the classroom to devote herself fully to raising her daughters, Cherie and Cheryl. When her girls were school-aged, she returned to teaching, continuing to pour encouragement and care into the lives of her students. Even in retirement, her love for teaching remained. She gave piano lessons at a local music school and from her home, sharing not only musical skills but also patience, joy, and kindness.

Music was woven into the fabric of Barbara's life. She loved to sing and was rarely without a melody-whether in her home, in the car, or wherever she happened to be. Her love for music reflected the joy that lived within her.

When her three granddaughters were born, they became the center of her world. She adored Darby, Rory, and Emerson and delighted in spoiling them with crafts, shopping trips, and special time together. Her devotion to them was unwavering, and her love will remain a lasting gift in their lives.

Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Paul Emory Sollock; her parents, Ariel and Mildred Briley; her stepmother, Pauline; and her sister, Myrna.

She leaves behind her daughters, Cherie Sollock Pickett and husband Craig Edward Pickett, and Cheryl Sollock Mitchell and husband Lance Wilson Mitchell; and her treasured granddaughters, Darby Alyssa Lynch, Rory Shea Lynch, and Emerson Paige Mitchell.

Barbara's faith was the foundation of her life. Today, she is fully restored, reunited with loved ones, and singing in Heaven's choir. While her family grieves her absence, they rejoice in the promise that she is home with her Lord.

Barbara will be laid to rest in Tyler, Texas at Dean Baptist Cemetery, 11567 County Road 1141, Tyler, Texas, 75709, on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 2 PM. The celebration of Barbara's life will be held at Fairfield Baptist Church, 27240 Highway 290, Cypress, Texas, 77433, on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 11 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: FairfieldBaptist.com/give.