Barbara Hibbitts

Barbara Ann Hibbitts, 83, of Throckmorton, Tx, entered her heavenly home on August 19, 2023.  She was born on December 14th, 1939, in Walters, Oklahoma, and was the only child born to the late Anna Mae and A.L. Otis.

Barbara grew up in Walters, where she was Oklahoma's two-time state vocal champion while in high school and the valedictorian of Walters High School.  She attended Midwestern State University on a full music scholarship, graduating Summa Cum Laude from MSU in 1962. While there, she served as the soloist for the First Baptist Church of Wichita Falls during her Junior and Senior college years.

One evening at the MSU recreation center, with ping pong paddle in hand, God orchestrated a divine appointment between a 'star choir girl' and a 'dud dropout.'  That encounter with Barbara changed Charles's rocky rebellious path and forever changed the course of his life and future generations to follow.  Six months later, that ping-pong partnership turned into a lifelong partnership.

Barbara Ann Otis and Charles Wayne Hibbitts married in Walters, Oklahoma, on June 29th, 1962. Barbara remained a loving wife to her husband, Charles, for 61 years.  She was a loyal and committed supporter of all 4 of her husband's career paths.  Barbara enjoyed children and taught elementary school in Calallen, New Castle, Knox City, Granbury, and Woodson, Texas, retiring after 30 years of devotion.  She loved the Lord and was a funny and encouraging friend to all that knew her. She was a prayerful and devoted mother to her three children, who attest to her uncanny ability to balance loving kindness with headstrong determination.

Although Barbara was not a smoker, she experienced lifelong chronic lung issues from a staph infection that plagued her lungs in her early twenties. She valiantly battled the aftermath of her condition for the rest of her life, leaving her with severe asthma, COPD, and crippling arthritis in her hands and feet.  When she no longer had the breath to sing with merit or beautifully play the piano she enjoyed, she never complained and boldly faced all obstacles life threw her way.

Barbara had a variety of hobbies.  She was an avid reader, finding joy in the written word.  Before arthritis and dementia, she expressed her creativity through piano, painting, and encouraging her many Facebook friends, which brought her such joy.

Barbara's true legacy lies within her personal and family relationships. Her mother and father, Anna Mae and Andrew Louis Otis, preceded her in death. She is survived by her beloved husband, Charles Hibbitts, and their children:  Kevin Hibbitts and his wife, Paula; Karlyn Cook and her husband, Neal; and Kasey Hibbitts and his wife, Amanda.  Barbara's grandchildren, Cheryl Hudson, Tyler Hibbitts, Landon and Chase Cook, and Nathan and Summer Shepherd, brought immense joy to her life.  She was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Emma and Sophie Hudson, Broyce, Kainoa, and Kovyn Hibbitts.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, from 6-7 p.m. at Smith Family Funeral Home in Throckmorton, Texas.  The funeral service will take place on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at 10 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Throckmorton, Texas. Graveside following the funeral. Please dress in casual attire due to the heat.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Cal Farley's Boys Ranch.  Donations can be sent to 600 SW 11th Ave, Amarillo, TX 79101.

Barbara Ann Hibbitts will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.  Her legacy of musical talent, determination, and humor will live on in the hearts of those she touched.