Barbara "Smith" Wilcox

Barbara Wilcox, 86, of Poplar Bluff, MO, passed away Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Aspire Nursing Center in Poplar Bluff. She was born in Mill Spring, March 5, 1939, to Clifford Robert Smith and Faye Morelan.

Barbara was a loving sister, aunt, and friend who cherished her family and lifelong connections. She lived with her grandparents, Arthur Lee and Lucy Smith, and attended Rural Ijames Hill School. At age eleven, she moved to St. Louis with her father, Clifford Smith, and his wife, Irene. She later relocated to Tomball, Texas, where she lived for years. It was there that she met and married John T. Wilcox.

Barbara worked in the oil and gas industry until her retirement in 1994. Following her retirement, she moved to Natchez, MS, before returning to the Poplar Bluff area in 2014, where she remained until her passing.

She is preceded in death by her father: Clifford Smith, and wife Irene; mother: Faye Moreland; brother: Timothy G. Smith; sister-in-laws: Linda S. Smith and Rita Kay Smith; fiancé: John E. King Jr.

Barbara is survived by her brother: Robert Smith of Mill Spring and nephew: Jonathan Smith of Piedmont; special friends: Hailey and Wyatt Kirkman of Mill Spring.

Barbara will be greatly missed by her family and friends, who will remember her for her kindness, resilience, and the love she shared throughout her life.

A graveside service will be held at 12:00 noon, Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Carson Hill Cemetery, Mill Spring, MO. Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com