Barbara Ann Chrisman (Allen)

Barbara Ann Chrisman, 78, Independence, MO passed away May 23, 2014. Service will be 10 am, Wed., May 28 at Christ United Methodist Church, 14506 E. 39th St., Independence, MO 64055; interment at
Woodlawn Cemetery. Visitation will be 6-8 pm, Tuesday at the church. Barbara was born July 4, 1935 in Independence, MO and was a life-long resident. She graduated from William Chrisman High School in the Class of 1953. Although she spent most of her life being a homemaker, she worked for the John Hancock Insurance Company at the Ford Claycomo plant until her retirement in 1996. She was a member of Christ United Methodist Church where she served as the Membership Secretary and a greeter, assisted in Communion, volunteered in the office and was active in Sunday School. She enjoyed reading, playing Bridge with her friends, traveling and taking cruises. The people who shared Barbara’s life knew her as a compassionate and generous woman who was admired for her optimism, friendly demeanor, infectious smile and her love of friends and family. She was devoted to raising her children to be strong, caring people who would make wise decisions in their lives and care for those around them. She and her daughters were best friends and provided each other with constant love, laughter and companionship. Barbara was preceded in death by husband John Chrisman, son Richard Sewell, Jr., daughter Jill Sewell, sister Patricia Allen, brother Howard Allen, Jr. and her parents. She is survived by daughters Denise Skahan and husband Philip, Lee’s Summit, MO; Julie Bredemeier and husband Daryl, Kansas City, MO; grandchildren Shelby & Darby Sewell; Eric, Jamie Rae & Ryan Skahan; Brett, Kristen & Kyle Bredemeier and great-granddaughter Emma Lou Skahan. The family would like to express a special “thank you” to the staff of the St. Luke’s Hospice House for their care, comfort and support in Barb’s final days.