Barbara Jeanne Askins Copeland

Barbara Jeanne Askins Copeland, 80, Nevada, Mo., passed away Friday, Aug. 29, 2014, at Nevada Regional Medical Center.

Barbara was born March 12, 1934, in Cuba, Mo., to Mary and Frank Askins. She is survived by her sister Patricia Watson (Ed) of Cuba, Mo. Barbara is preceded in death by her sister, Donna Avery. They spent their childhood in Cuba, Mo., where their mother owned and operated B&M Café.

Barbara married John Charles Copeland on July 26, 1954. He preceded her in death. Barbara and John resided in St. James, Mo., where they farmed and raised three children, Bruce (Ginger) Copeland, of Alba, Mo., Dr. Brad (Lori) Copeland, of Nevada, Mo., and Lenoir (Grant) Marks, of Schaumburg, Ill.

Barbara was blessed with six grandchildren, Cara (Chris) Morris, of Lee's Summit, Mo., Brad Copeland, of Alba, Mo., Alana (Jim) Nolan, of St. Louis, Mo., Sara (Tom) Werner, of San Antonio, Texas, and Kyle and Kevin Marks, of Schaumburg, Ill.

The blessings continued with four great-grandchildren, Melissa Werner, Travis and Seth Nolan, and Beckett Morris.

Barbara was an avid fisherman who spent many hours at ponds and lakes near her farm in St. James. She was a bridge player her entire adult life, most recently enjoying weekly bridge games with Nevada friends. The St. Louis Cardinals held a special place in her heart, wardrobe and calendar. She was known to adamantly coach them from her recliner. Barbara was a member of the First Baptist Church in Nevada.

A private family memorial is planned. Mrs. Copeland was cremated under the direction of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada.

Contributions may be made in Barbara's name to Nevada Regional Medical Center Foundation, where she received excellent care, in care of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada.

View obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com.