Barbara Jean Fletcher, 82, of Aurora, Missouri, passed away on February 8, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Care Center in St. Elizabeth, Missouri.

Barbara was born on January 12, 1944, in Cassville, Missouri, to Marvin and Bonnie Ima Jean (Strickler) Fletcher. She lived life on her own terms and was known for her strong will, direct nature, and unmistakable presence. Barbara spoke her mind, stood her ground, and faced life with determination.

She found joy in the things that made her happy — collecting baby dolls, browsing flea markets for hidden treasures, and listening to her favorite music. She was a member of Full Faith Gospel Church in Aurora, Missouri.

Barbara leaves behind a large and growing family. She is survived by her son, James Earl Pruente and his wife Brenda of Laramie, Wyoming; daughters Mary Gold and her significant other Gene Robertson of Aurora, Missouri, Patricia Williams and her husband Tony of Aurora, Missouri, and Robin McDowell and her husband Jeff of Eldon, Missouri; 12 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Marvin "Junior" Fletcher of Pea Ridge, Arkansas, and Mike Fletcher of Tulsa, Oklahoma; three sisters, Anita Wilbanks of Aurora, Missouri, Wanda Collie of Greensburg, Indiana, and Peggy Reynolds of Seattle, Washington; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Robert Leon Fulcher;  her daughter, Shelia Jean Pruente; and three brothers, Gary Fletcher, Mickey Fletcher, and Bill Fletcher.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation and entrusted to White Funeral Home and Crematory.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Interment will take place at Spring River Cemetery in Verona, Missouri.

Arrangements are under the direction of White Funeral Home and Crematory.