Barbara Jane Dirickson

**Obituary for Barbara Jane Dirickson**

Barbara Jane Dirickson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend passed away on June 25, 2024, in Bloomfield, Missouri, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on October 17, 1933, in Campbell, Missouri, to Theodore and Lillian (Jeffries) Cruse, and lived most of her life in Southeast Missouri. 

Barbara was a remarkable woman who found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She had a passion for, farming, and spending time outdoors driving the tractor and putting up hay. Barbara took great pride in raising cattle and tending to her garden where she could often be found canning fresh produce. Above all else, she cherished moments spent with her family, especially spoiling her grandchildren with love and affection.

On July 4, 1953, Barbara  Jane married Fred Clifford Dirickson in Qulin, Missouri, and became best friends over their 70 years of marriage. 

Barbara spent many countless hours volunteering her time for Blood Drives, working at elections as a Poll Worker,  She was a member of the Young Farmers And Farm Wives Club as well as the Mingo Saddle Club. Barbara Jane was also a member of the Puxico Church of Christ. 

Barbara is survived by her loving husband of many years; their five daughters Stephanie (Darrell) Mortland of Hardin, Illinois, Renee (Ronnie) Stuart of Wappapello, Missouri, Tammy (Kent) Blocker of Oran, Missouri, Tracey Dirickson of Puxico, Missouri, Kelli (Kerry) Acre of Poplar Bluff, Missouri; eight grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; as well as her church family and a multitude of relatives and friends who will miss her dearly.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Teddy Jack Cruse; and her sister, Donna Jean Fuller.

Visitation for Barbara Jane Dirickson will be held on June 29, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Watkins Funeral Homes in Puxico. A Funeral Service will follow at the same location at 12:00 PM. The interment will take place at Puxico Cemetery at 1:00 PM.

In our hearts and memories, Barbara's kindness, strength, and love will forever remain. May she rest in peace knowing she was deeply cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know her.