Barbara J. Keefer, 89, died September 7, 2025, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. She was born July 11, 1936, in McPherson, to Delbert F. and Luella (Buehler) Wilkinson.
Barbara graduated from McPherson High School in 1954, and received her degree in nursing from Fort Scott Community College. She worked as a registered nurse in Hutchinson before staying home full-time after the birth of her son, David. Barbara enjoyed working in her immaculate yard and tending to her flowers. As a natural born caregiver, she was always ready and willing to help out her family and friends. Above all, family meant everything to Barbara. She was a member of P.E.O. and First Presbyterian Church, Hutchinson.
On April 4, 1959, she married Kenneth A. Keefer, in Hutchinson. He died January 19, 2019, after they shared almost 60 years of marriage.
Barbara is survived by: son, David Keefer (Susan) of Shawnee; grandchildren, Thialan Logan, Grace Keefer, Emma Keefer, Cameron Keefer, and Anna Keefer; great-grandchildren, Josie Raya, T.J. Logan, and Nia Logan; sister-in-law, Connie Bula (Mick); and nieces and nephews, B.J. Jennings, Ann Jennings, Bob Jennings, Brad Swisher, and Drew Swisher.
She was preceded in death by: her parents; stepfather, Royal Sipe; daughter, Krista A. Williams; and a sister, Donna Jennings.
Private inurnment will be held in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson. Friends may sign her book and view photos and memorabilia from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday, September 27, 2025, and 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, September 28, 2025, at Elliott Mortuary.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Hospice House or the Hutchinson Art Association, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.