Gladys Barks

Gladys Idell Barks, 101, passed away Friday, April 17, 2015, at the Jackson Manor Nursing Home in Jackson.

She was born Jan. 15, 1914, in Sedgewickville, Missouri, daughter of Joe and Daisy Johnson Thiele. She and Leo L. Barks married Aug. 16, 1933. He preceded her in death Feb. 18, 1954.

Gladys attained a teaching certificate at the former Southeast Teacher's College in Cape Girardeau. She taught two years at the former Roe School in Sedgewickville before she and Leo were married. She worked 14 years as a cook for Sedgewickville School, and 19 years in the bakery/deli department at the former Schaper's IGA in Jackson. Gladys was a former member of Sedgewickville Lutheran Church, where she was baptized and confirmed in 1926, and played piano at services 30 years. She moved to Jackson in 1969 and became a member of Emanuel United Church of Christ. She played the piano for special events at the church, was a member of the Friendship Circle and the eldest member of the congregation. Gladys loved "Tuesday/Lunchday" with her family at her home, and enjoyed playing cards, especially pitch and pinochle, and traveling with bus tours.

Loving survivors include a daughter, Anna Lee (Don) Hahs of Jackson; a son, Larry Joe (Ruth) Barks of Jackson; four grandchildren, Barbara Hahs, Gary (Ashley) Hahs, Timothy (Karen) Barks and Michael (Clarissa) Barks; 13 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband. she was preceded by a granddaughter, Minndi Jo Barks, and a great-granddaughter, Robin Barks.

Friends may call from 3 to 6 p.m. today at the chapel of McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson.

The funeral will be at 10 a.m. Monday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Sam Roethemeyer officiating. Interment will be in Sedgewickville Cemetery.

Memorials may take the form of contributions to Emanuel United Church of Christ, Southeast Hospice or Jackson Senior Center.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting mccombsfuneralhome.com.