Barbara Ann Roark

Barbara Moore Roark, 84, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, departed this life for her eternal home with Jesus, her Savior and Lord, on April 18, 2026.

Barbara was born on December 8, 1941, in Nesbit, Missouri, to the late Grady and Maggie Jackson.

She was the youngest of seven children and was often quoted as saying she was “very spoiled” by her five older brothers and one sister. She fondly recalled her childhood days attending school at Beach Corner and singing her favorite hymns at Bible Grove United Pentecostal Church.

Barbara enjoyed telling her grandchildren stories of her younger years, including helping chop cotton—something her older brothers always insisted she never actually did.

On April 5, 1958, Barbara married Hal Dean Moore at Bible Grove Church. Together they had two daughters, Marian (Jim) Bidewell of Portageville, Missouri, and Tammy (Moore) Reid of Poplar Bluff, Missouri. Hal Dean preceded her in death on August 16, 1991.

Barbara attended cosmetology school in Kennett, Missouri, where she began her 60-year career as a beautician. On May 1, 1993, she married Tom Roark, and together they owned and operated Valley Plaza Beauty and Barber Shop. Tom preceded her in death on January 2, 2010.

Barbara was a longtime member of Palace of Praise Church in Poplar Bluff. She had a heart for serving and was blessed to go on a mission trip to Mexico with her church family.

Barbara’s most cherished title was “Memaw” to her six grandchildren: Aaron (Lauren) Bidewell, Jordan (Chelsea) Bidewell, Mallory (Patrick) Morton, Graham (Sammi) Reid, Hallie Reid, and Isaac Reid; seven great-grandchildren: Maggie, Emma, Asher, Grady, Macklin, Liberty, and Blaire; along with two bonus grandchildren, Gerald (April) Pickering and Yomi (Sondra) Ajasin, and their children.

She loved cooking, tending to her flowers, shopping, and enjoying time at Myrtle’s Place. She especially treasured her Bible study with friends and made many meaningful memories on trips to Branson and family beach vacations.

The highlight of her year was the Jackson family Reunion and spending time with her nieces and nephews.

Barbara also held a special place in her heart for her beloved companions, Muffin, Annie Mae, and Snickers.

Barbara was also preceded in death by her brothers, Carlos Jackson, Max Jackson, W.T. “Dub” Jackson, Joe Neal Jackson, and Ralph Jackson, and her sister, Mae Nell Cates.

Visitation will be from 11am-1pm on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Palace of Praise in Poplar Bluff, MO. Funeral services will follow beginning at 1:00 with Pastor Kent Miller officiating. Burial will take place at Memorial Garden Cemetery in Kennett, MO.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family and friends of Barbara Ann Moore Roark. Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com