Barbara Jean Janssen, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and aunt gained her wings Thursday, September 17, 2026 at 94 years old. She knew Paul, her husband of 75 years, had gained his wings three weeks prior and wanted to again be by his side.

Barbara was born August 18, 1932 in Woodsboro, TX to Manning Erval and Clara Virginia Evans. According to her baby book her name was chosen by her parents. The usual milestones were attained during her first year of life including laughing, smiling, walking. But the most unusual milestone was being taken upstairs by her Grandmother Evans on September 11, 1932 at three weeks old. There was a superstition that a baby should be carried upstairs, that it may rise in the world, before it is taken downstairs. We believe that Mom rose to become a shining star in this world.

Mom and Dad became acquainted through his job. He became a bus driver after returning from WWII and Mom’s house was on his route. He would pick her up for school every morning. They married after she graduated high school on June 1, 1951 at the Methodist parsonage in Runge, Texas. Mom became a very successful homemaker supporting Dad while he worked and raising three children, David Paul Janssen, Richard Jean Janssen and Leesa Marie Janssen. Her home was immaculate and home cooked meals were the order every day. Her shortbread cookies with the cherry center and the cherry cheesecake during the holidays or the fancy Jello she made in pretty glass bowls will always be remembered. After Dad retired, they were both involved in volunteer work at their church and the Odessa Chamber of Commerce.

Barbara was a cherished member of the Discover Odessa Volunteer family since April 2004. Throughout her many years of service, she was always kind, caring and willing to lend a helping hand. Barbara welcomed visitors and those around her with a warm heart and a genuine desire to make a difference. Her willingness to serve, her dependability, and her beautiful spirit made her a treasured part of Discover Odessa. We are incredibly grateful for the many years she generously gave to our organization and our community. Barbara will be deeply missed, but the kindness she shared and the memories she created will remain in our hearts. (Thank you Odessa Chamber of Commerce)

Grandma is remembered for playing games, some that were physical like tennis and chasing home run tennis balls or basketball. She walked with others to get ice cream at the local burger joint. Cards and board games were the activity anytime the grands were with her. Soap Operas and The Price is Right were always on the TV.

Mom is predeceased by her husband Paul, her parents Erval and Virginia Evans, her husband’s parents Henry II and Erna Janssen, daughter Leesa Driver and son-in-law Jarrell Driver. She is also predeceased by siblings Manning Evans and Ruth Bruce, brothers-in-law Wilton (Peggy), Vernon, Lamar, Wayne and Henry III and sister-in-law Joyce Barber (John).

Mom is survived by her sons David (Mary), Richard (Helen). She is also survived by grandchildren Jonathan (ZuAna) Janssen, Anna (Philip) Ormsby, Kyle (Allie) Driver and Tammy (Dini) Smith. Great grandchildren Jocelyn and Zayden Janssen, Dirk and Peyton Ormsby and Cameron Ruiz. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law Merilyn Evans Joyce Ann Janssen, Anna Janssen, Gloria Janssen, and brothers-in-law Paul Bruce and Norris (Reta) Janssen and numerous nieces and nephews.

Honorary Pallbearers are Jonathan Janssen, Philip Ormsby, Kyle Driver, Dirk Ormsby and Zayden Janssen. Graveside service officiated by Pastor Wally Schiwart.

Donations made by made in Barbara’s honor to Meals on Wheels Odessa, mowo.org.

Visitation will be held Sunday, September 20, 3:00-5:00pm.

Graveside Service Monday, September 21, 11:00am.

Services are provided by Sunset Memorial Gardens 6801 E Hwy 80, Odessa, TX.