PLANO – Barbara Ann Whitt née Smith of Plano, Texas passed away the morning of March 24, 2022 at the age of 78. Barbara was born December 9, 1943 to Warren and Mary Inez Smith. Barbara grew up near Bokchito in southern Oklahoma. She had a modest upbringing but was dedicated and a hard worker; after graduating top of her class from high school in 1962 and with the help of her big brother, James, she was able to attend Southeastern State College in Durant where she earned her bachelor’s degree in home economics in 1966. While at Southeastern, Barbara caught the eye of Glen Whitt, whom she married in 1968. After being drafted into the military Glen attended officer school he and Barbara moved many times in their first years of marriage. While stationed at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, Barbara gave birth to their son, Jeff in 1969. The young family then moved to Plano Texas after Glen returned from his deployment in Korea. In 1974, Barbara was again blessed by a beautiful baby girl, Amanda.
In 1989, Barbara set out to build a life for herself. She focused on following her love of creating a beautiful home filled with beautiful things, as well as continuing to dote on her children and furthering her love of travel, this time accompanied by one of her best friends, her daughter Amanda. Barabra shared her love and talent for cooking with both of her children. Their time was often spent cooking and enjoying a delicious meal together and then finding treasures at some of the most posh and interesting estate sales in the area. Barbara was a patient mother, a talented seamstress, and an excellent
Barbara was a patient mother, a talented seamstress, and an excellent cook. She often made dresses and clothing for the ladies she loved. She loved traveling, and was always willing to try new things, even if they scared her. Barbara always seemed to be a woman ahead of her time not only in her pursuit to further her education, but also in her sense of fashion, and in her love for adventurous cooking. She had great affection for her Yorkies, Molly and Holly who had eyes only for Barbara.
Later in life Barbara was given one last precious gift, her granddaughter Penelope Alessandra Whitt, born to Jeff and his wife Erica in 2017. Although it was later than she would have liked, her time with Penelope was cherished. Like her beloved Grammie, Penelope is a loving, kind, strong, intelligent fashionista with a killer sweet tooth. She was one classy lady and everyone who loved her will miss her dearly.
Barbara is preceded in death by her parents and by her brother, James. She is survived by her son Jeff, her daughter Amanda, granddaughter Penelope, sisters Lilis, Jean and sister-in-law Ann nieces Jennifer, Kim and Lisa, and nephew Steven.
A memorial service to celebrate Barbara will be held on Saturday April 2nd from 11am to 2pm at The Venue on Main at 519 W. Main St. Suite 102 Denison Texas 75020.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for people to please make a donation to The Little Dog Rescue of North Texas or your local ASPCA in her name.
