Barbara Gail Workman Vose

Barbara Gail Workman Vose, beloved Mother, Grandmother, animal advocate, and friend, passed away Friday, January 30, 2026, at the age of 81. Barbara was born on March 16, 1944, to Berniece "Bee" and Robert Workman of Oklahoma City. Her pride in Oklahoma City remained steadfast throughout her life.

Barbara graduated from Harding High School before attending Mount Vernon College in Washington DC in 1964 where she furthered her love of learning and exposure to American politics. She soon returned to Oklahoma City, and began dating Charles Alden Vose, Jr. They were married in June of 1965. Lisa Estelle Vose and Charles Alden Vose, III, were born a couple of years later and remained her pride and joy.

Barbara's life was defined by her love of family, her many close friends, her community in Oklahoma City, her passion for the Arts, and her mission of Animal Advocacy. In fact, you rarely saw Barbara without a dog lovingly snuggled in her arms. She brought creativity, passion, and elegance to all organizations in which she was involved. The Oklahoma City Junior League and Oklahoma City Arts Festival, were sources of pride for her as she formed lifelong friendships and championed meaningful community projects.

Those who knew her best will fondly remember her for her warmth and beautiful smile. She was famous for putting people at ease with her charming personality and contagious laugh. She was a self-admitted gypsy soul and traveled the globe with curiosity and a zest for life even in her later years. She found solace in the sun and nature's beauty. Her fondest memories were created in Chub Cay, Bahamas, Montauk, New York, and Carmel, California. Each location brought her peace and harmony and she shared her love of these homes graciously with her family and friends. After a brief move to Dallas, Texas, to be closer to her children, she returned to Oklahoma City, which she always considered home sweet home.

Barbara leaves behind a legacy of generosity, leadership, and love. Her influence lives on in the countless people she encouraged and the community she helped to build.

Barbara is survived by her children Lisa Vose Combs and her husband Brett and their two daughters Estee and Annie, Chad Vose and his wife Merry and their three sons Alden, Gardiner, and Harrison. We would be remiss without mentioning her three beloved dogs Zandy, Luna, and Holly.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Oklahoma Humane Society to honor Barbara's love of animals