Winnie Barton

Winnie Stapp Barton, age 104, passed away peacefully, on Sunday, March 8, 2026, in Abilene, Texas. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, service, and love for her community.

Winnie was the daughter of Burt and Lola Stapp. She was born on January 31, 1922, on a passenger train while her parents were traveling to visit relatives in Dallas.

She attended public school in Lueders and graduated from Lueders High School in 1940. She was recently honored by the school district as the oldest living graduate of the school district, a recognition that brought her great pride.

After graduation, Winnie moved to Dallas where she met and married J.D. Barton. From this union two sons were born, Dan and Burt. In her early years, Winnie worked at several banks in Dallas, Texas, where she developed the strong work ethic and warm personality that would characterize her life. Winnie retired as Vice President of Dallas International Bank in 1983 and returned to her hometown of Lueders and began working as the school librarian for the Lueders-Avoca Schools in the late 1980s, where she became a cherished part of the lives of countless students. She loved being around the school children and took great joy in helping them learn and grow. Even in her later years, Winnie remained active and adventurous. At the age of 81, she served as a chaperone on a ten-day bus trip with students to Washington and New York City. Winnie made sure that every child had the opportunity to purchase books from the book fair. An avid reader herself, she believed deeply in the importance of reading and learning. Her caring heart extended beyond the library—she quietly made sure that young girls had dresses to wear to prom, believing every student deserved to feel special. Ms. Winnie retired at the young age of 90, in 2012.

Winnie had a deep love for flowers and found happiness in their beauty. She also enjoyed playing dominoes with friends and family, sharing laughter and fellowship during those times. She also enjoyed working crossword puzzles daily, a pastime she continued until the past month when her failing eyesight made it difficult. Winnie was a longtime faithful member of the Church of Christ in Nugent, Texas.

Known for her grace and dignity, Winnie always took pride in her appearance. She was rarely seen without being neatly dressed and well groomed, reflecting the care and respect she showed for herself and others.

Winnie will be remembered for her gentle spirit, generous heart, and the lasting impact she made on generations of students and her community. Her life was a beautiful example of quiet service and kindness.

Winnie was preceded in death by her parents, four sisters and one brother.

Winnie is survived by her son, James Barton and wife Judith of Mason, Texas; son and caregiver, Burt Barton of Lueders, Texas; Four grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Winnie’s life will be celebrated during memorial services on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Tankersley Funeral Home Chapel. The service will be officiated by Wayne Kitchens. Arrangements are under the direction of Tankersley funeral Home, 807 Columbia Street, Stamford, Texas.