02/12/2026
Barbara Jean Forester, 83, of Dixon, Missouri, passed away on February 9, 2026. She was born February 18, 1942, in Phelps County to Birt Hatcher and Eva (Happel) Hatcher.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bill Forester; her son, Billy Forester Jr.; her daughters, Marilyn Greene, Carolyn Sigl, and Tammy Baggett; her granddaughter, Barbara Jean Forester; and her brother, Les Hays.
Barbara is survived by her daughter, Joyce Pingel Forester; her cherished grandchildren, Helen, Billy, Crystell, Marty, Dalton, Josh, David Jr., Rian, Michael, Kaitlyn, Sarah (Dobbs), Billy III (Kisha), Brittany (Howard), and A.J.; her sister, Margot Huffman; and a special daughter-in-law, Pam Vineyard, along with many other relatives and friends who will deeply miss her.
Barbara found her greatest joy in spending time with her family. She loved cooking and tending to her garden, and she especially enjoyed camping and fishing. She could often be found browsing thrift stores or visiting the local farmers market. Known for her friendly nature, Barbara never met a stranger and had a spirited personality—she certainly did not like to be ignored.
Services for Barbara will be held at Tabernacle of Praise Church in Rolla, Missouri, on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 12:00 p.m.