Barbara Anne Ruark, age 89, of Washburn, Missouri
Barbara Anne Ruark, age 89, of Washburn, Missouri passed away Wednesday, April 29,
2026 at Hampton Place Healthcare in Rogers, Arkansas.
She was born April 5, 1937 in Denver, Colorado, the daughter of Carroll Shepard and
Bessie (Smith) Miles. On August 22, 1954 in Exeter, Missouri she was united in marriage to
Kenneth Ruark, who preceded her in death on June 4, 2025. Also preceding her in death were her
parents; infant son, David Wayne; daughter, Linda; grandson, Eric Ruark; brothers, Cecil Miles,
Charles Miles, and Fred Miles; sister, Eleanor and daughter-in-law, Judy Loyd.
Surviving are her sons, Steven Ray Ruark of Claremore, Oklahoma and Jerry Lee Ruark
and wife Tarrie of Washburn, Missouri; daughters, Mary Jane Siefken and her husband Robert of
Ozark, Missouri and Ruth Coonce and her husband Pat of Garfield, Arkansas; brother, Michael
Miles and wife Joyce of Washburn, Missouri; sister, Kathleen Carr and husband Sam of Rose,
Oklahoma; thirteen grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren.
Barbara grew up in Washburn, where she attended school and proudly graduated from
Washburn High School as valedictorian. She dedicated many years of her career to FASCO
Industries, serving as a supervisor until her retirement. Barbara had previously worked as a
teacher’s aide with the Southwest School System and was employed by Justin Boot. She
furthered her education by studying computer programming in college.
Barbara enjoyed caring for her farm, gardening, and tending to her flowers and animals.
She loved her family, especially her grandchildren, who brought her happiness. She was never
more content than when holding a child in her arms. As a member of the Church of Christ,
Barbara attended services in Washburn, Missouri, Exeter, Missouri, and Garfield, Arkansas. She
will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Fohn Funeral Home in
Cassville. Brother Gary Blackburn will conduct the services. Burial will be at Hickman
Cemetery in Washburn, Missouri.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 7:00 P.M. Friday, May 8, 2026 at Fohn
Funeral Home in Cassville.
Contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in memory of
Barbara.
Visit www.fohnfuneralhome.com for online obituaries, guestbook and private condolences
FOHN FUNERAL HOME
Cassville, Missouri
417-847-2141
