Barbara Joan

James

Barbara Joan James (Cross) of Burkburnett, Texas passed away surrounded by her loved ones on March 14, 2024. She was 82.

Barbara was born on August 4, 1941 to Alfred & Dorothy Cross in Ames, Oklahoma. She was raised on a farm with her four siblings who affectionately referred to her as "Joansey" and "Chelsey". Barbara was a loving mother of 5 children and worked as a manager of Jiffy and Preston's convenience stores. Later in life, Barbara transitioned into housekeeping for Texas Christian Home Center.

Barbara was an animal lover through and through. She always had pets or tended to any that would come to her door. Barbara's hobbies included cooking, baking, and bird watching. If you were looking for her, the first place to check was outside as Barbara was always gardening. She created and maintained beautiful gardens around her home. Barbara loved having a camper and spent many family trips visiting Waurika Lake and Quartz Mountains. Barbara was an incredible grandmother and lived to spoil her grandbabies.

Barbara was predeceased by her parents, her brother, Richard Cross; her sister, Frances "Franny" Davidson; and her husband, Mason James. Barbara is survived by her step-mother, Vera McNickle; her brother Alfred "Chris" (Kay) Cross, her sister Judy (Boone) Davidson; and all five of her children: Cassie (Billy) Lord, Brian Hardy, Karen Dickey, Roger Hardy, and Terri (John) Drury; 10 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild and many nieces and nephews.

Services to celebrate Barbara's life will be held at 2PM on Monday, March 18, 2024 at First Christian Church (214 N Ave D Burkburnett, TX 76354) where she was a member of the congregation. Flowers can be sent to this location on the day of her memorial service.