Barbara Ann Catherine (Heider) Anna passed away at NHC Healthcare in West Plains, Missouri on January 23, 2026. Barbara was born in St. Louis, Missouri, on November 28, 1945, to Oscar E. Heider and Bernadine S. (Dickneite) Heider.
She married the love of her life, Robert “Bob” G. Anna on January 10, 1964. The two were married 50 years until his passing in 2014. They traveled the world together during Bob’s service in the United Air Force. The couple had four daughters, Carol, Theresa, Wendy, and Patricia.
Barbara made a home in each base the family landed. She was a wonderful cook and seamstress making her girl’s wedding dresses and wedding cakes. Barbara was proud of her career as a nurse’s aide and medication technician. She worked caring for the elderly in nursing homes.
She is survived by her daughters Carol C. Leal (Roberto) of California, MD, Theresa L. Gehlken (Jimmie) of Mountain View, MO, Wendy S. Maffei (Robert) of Niceville, FL, and Patricia R. Smith (Sonny) of Mountain View, MO; twelve grandchildren; nineteen great-grandchildren; her sister, Wanda Conner; and her brother, Edward Heider.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Bob; granddaughter, Kristian E. Gehlken, her parents; her brothers, Roger Bertram and Thomas Heider; and a brother-in-law, Kenny Conner.
Through her daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, her story will continue for many generations to come.
No services are planned. Cremation arrangements were under the direction of Yarber Mortuary, Mountain View, Missouri. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.
