BARBARA POTTER OWNBY

Barbara Ann Potter Ownby October 11, 1934 – February 5, 2022

Barbara was born in San Antonio, Texas. She lived with her parents and brother, Glenn, in San Antonio and Dallas before moving to West University Place at age 13. Barbara met Clifford, the love of her life, at Lamar High School. They both attended the University of Houston where Barbara earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education.

Barbara and Clifford married and started a family in West University where she remained until 2017. Barbara was a faithful member of West University United Methodist Church for more than 70 years where she enjoyed teaching all ages and cooking for the seniors. She spent her career teaching first grade at West University Elementary were she had a lifelong impact on many students. Everyone who knew Barbara would tell you she had a kind and loving heart. She loved children and was a talented gardener, amazing cook, and welcoming host to all who entered her home.

Barbara earned her certification as a Master Gardner from Texas A&M. She had the honor of landscaping the president’s residence at Rice University for an Azalea Trail event. Barbara hosted numerous cooking and herb growing classes through

South Texas Unit of the Herb Society and Heritage Society, where she served in many leadership positions. She was very honored to be involved in the research and planning for the Cockrell Butterfly Center at Hermann Park.

Barbara will be most remembered for her pure servant heart, endless generosity, and ability to encourage and love unconditionally. Barbara’s community and family were dear to her, and in turn her community and family loved her greatly. Her daughters-in-law all say they won the jackpot when they got Barbara.

Barbara is survived by her three sons Clay Ownby (Cheryll), Ben Ownby (Kelly) and David Ownby (Liz), as well as nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

A memorial service for Barbara will be held at West University United Methodist Church on Saturday, March 12th at 1 p.m. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association Houston or the scholarship fund for the South Texas Unit of the American Herb Society.