Barbara Ann Thompson was called home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, May 2, 2012, after a long, well lived life, and a brave battle against multiple health issues. She was a devout Catholic and her faith was the cornerstone of her life.
To honor her memory and celebrate her life, a Rosary and Visitation Service will be held Sunday, May 6, 2012, 6:00 p.m., at Fitzgerald Southwood Colonial Chapel, 91st and Harvard, South Tulsa. A Funeral Mass in recognition of her life will be Monday, May 7, 2012, 10 a.m. at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 1727 South 75th East Ave, Tulsa, OK.
Barbara was born in Detroit, Michigan to Stephen and Adelaide Sarnac. She grew up in Fayette, Ohio where her family owned and operated a successful manufacturing business. Barbara attended Nazareth Academy in Kalamazoo, Michigan. As a young woman, prior to getting married, starting a family, and moving to Tulsa, Barbara was a woman ahead of her times. At a time when most women were not out in the work force, she headed the family business, traveling the country, and working as their lead sale's associate. After marrying, moving to the Tulsa area, and having her beloved daughters, Barbara worked as a secretary for Bishop Kelley High School, Church of Saint Benedict, Christ the King Catholic Parish and the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother. She lived in the Tulsa area the majority of her adult life.
Barbara was a champion and great advocate for those with developmental disabilities. She was passionate about the rights and dignity of care for those that often could not speak for themselves. As their voice, she fought and won numerous battles resulting in many positive changes for those with disabilities.
Barbara is preceded in death by her father Stephen, her mother Adelaide, her sisters Mary Lou and Jean, and her brothers Stephen and Joe.
She is survived by the loves of her life: her two daughters, Patricia Ann (Thompson) Bush, Broken Arrow, OK, and Susan Marie Thompson, Tulsa, Oklahoma; two granddaughters, Lauren and Reagan Bush, and her son-in-law, Jeff Bush. Barbara is also survived by two brothers, Michael Sarnac, Richmond, Virginia, Peter Sarnac, South Bend, Indiana, and two sisters, Terry Ames, Phoenix, Arizona, and Julie Conklin, Wyoming, PA.
On behalf of her family, thank you for the love, support, care and encouragement of so many dear family, friends, nurses, and caregivers during these last few years.
In lieu of flowers, and in recognition and honor of Barbara's life, donations may be made in her memory to The Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges – a place dear to Barbara's heart, and where her daughter Susan is an active participant.
Contributions may be mailed to:

The Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges
815 S Utica Ave, Tulsa, OK 74104
(918) 584-8607
www.tulsacenter.org

Fitzgerald Southwood Colonial Chapel, 918-291-3500.