BARBARA “BARBI” OAKLEY FREEMAN

1942-2021

Barbara Oakley “Barbi” Freeman, 79, passed away October 10, 2021 at her home from complications of cancer and heart disease. She was born May 1, 1942 in Paoli, Indiana to Robert and Lucille Oakley, who preceded her in death. A graduate of Paoli Community High School, she attended Indiana University after her marriage to Larry Freeman in 1960.

The middle sister of three girls, known as the Oakley ABCs, Barbi was fiercely protective of her siblings. Her older sister Ann preceded her in death and younger sister Cathy resides in Kentucky. Niece Sarah Vosmeier and nephew Andrew McNair survive to carry on her legacy.

She and Larry moved to Houston in the spring of 1964. A vivacious, tender, fun-loving soul, Barbie’s personality fit her various jobs in sales. For the past 11 years she served as sales manager for electronics manufacturer PPSI. A civic-minded individual, Barbi was also active in her Houston Jersey Village government functions and the GOP party. She served many years as a steadfast, impartial election judge.

Karie Lawrence, a long-time Jersey Village neighbor and collaborator, continues Barbi’s tradition of leadership and community service.

Barbi and Larry’s home in Jersey Village was the site of many pleasant gatherings over the years for family, friends, acquaintances, and neighborhood functions. Gracious, fun-loving, and devoted to each other, they recently marked their 61st wedding anniversary. Larry survives to accept written greetings at Stagecoach Senior Living.