Barbara "Bobbie" Ann Ecker Thompson

Barbara “Bobbie” Ann Ecker Thompson, 80, passed away on January 9, 2026. She was born on May 18, 1945, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Earl M. Ecker and Cora Rosella Spencer as the third of eight girls. Bobbie took pride in being known as one of the “Ecker Girls”. She deeply loved her life, and took pride at being a part of a big family. Her role as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend was something she didn’t take lightly but expressed in every action of love she could.

In 1963, she graduated from McLain High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She married Robert David Shepherd in 1964 and later married Robert “Robbie” Thompson in 1990. She was preceded in death by her parents and two of her seven sisters, Patsy Moss and Brenda Christian.

Barbara is survived by her loving husband of over 35 years, Robert “Robbie” Thompson of Port St. Lucie, Florida; her children, Robert D. Shepherd II and his wife Kim of Mariahville, Maine; Lori Shepherd of Port St. Lucie, Florida; stepson, Robbie Thompson and his wife Mary of Spring, Texas, and stepdaughter, Kelly Zilmer and her spouse Bill of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Her grandchildren: Tori Kirkland; Avery Shepherd; Kalieann Shepherd Priddy; Jacob, Tyler, and Gracie Thompson; Nathan and Allison Zilmer. Her great grandchildren: Jameson, Avery, Sam, and SailorAnn; and five sisters: Earlene Cochran of Turley, Oklahoma; Linda Smith of Sperry, Oklahoma; Mary Trammel of Turley, Oklahoma; Willie Werre of Fort Pierce, Florida; and Sandra George of Fort Pierce, Florida.

During her years traveling as a military wife, Bobbie began exploring her artistic passions while taking charge of planning and setting up events for Naval officers. Her attention to detail brought her recognition and awards from base command. Later, it was through painting, decorating, and creative crafts that her love for family was uniquely displayed. Her collages captured cherished moments with those closest to her, and her beloved “Acorn Family” display was a testament to the meaning family held in her heart. Time spent with Barbara was always filled with stories of her experiences. She loved traveling and treasure hunting particularly at roadside markets during the many spontaneous drives she took with Robbie.

After moving to Port St. Lucie, Florida, in 2010, Barbara and Robbie added another branch to her family tree through the Gator Trace community. She enjoyed non competitive golf scrambles followed by afternoon cocktails on the veranda with the Robbie and her sisters. Many Friday nights were spent dining in the lounge and singing karaoke where Barbara was well known for her spirited rendition of “Hooked on a Feeling” duet she performed with her daughter Lori.

Bobbie will always be remembered for her warmth, laughter, enthusiasm, and the deep love she shared with her family and friends. She never met a stranger she didn’t leave feeing like they’ve always known her. Her legacy lives on in the memories she created and the lives she touched.