Barbara Jean (Bennett) Chitwood

Barbara “Barb” Jean Chitwood, 81, of Piedmont, MO, passed away Friday, February 27, 2026, at her residence. She was born in Piedmont, MO, March 23, 1944.

Barb was the cherished daughter of John Lyman and Kathryn Mae (Pevrill) Bennett. Barb was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She married the love of her life, Richard Chitwood, September 28, 1986, and they shared a life filled with love, laughter, and countless precious memories.

Barb took great joy in caring for Richard and her family, always putting their needs above her own and delighting in spoiling those she loved most. She found happiness in life’s everyday pleasures. Barb loved traveling to Truman Lake, where she enjoyed fishing and camping. She was an excellent cook and baker, known for preparing meals that brought everyone together. She enjoyed sewing, working in her yard, cutting grass, reading a good book, and spending quiet hours putting puzzles together. She also had a special place in her heart for her beloved cats.

Barb was of the Baptist faith and had attended Harvest Baptist Church in Piedmont. She spent her life rooted in the community she loved, building a legacy of devotion to family, friendship, and simple joys.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her son, Shawn Batton; brother, Johnny Bennett; sister, Eunice Flynn; brother-in-law: Bob Chitwood; and sisters-in-law, Pat Mann and Sarah Grantski.

Barb is survived by her devoted husband of thirty-nine years; children: Richard Wade Chitwood, Lisa Markham and husband Tony, Richelle Adams and husband Kevin, all of Piedmont and Katina Barnfield and husband Clint of Puxico; grandchildren: Felicia McCorkell and husband Corey, Anthony Markham, Kasen Barnfield, Carly Barnfield, Raquel Rudolph, and Riki Duncan and husband Tony; eleven great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law, Tom Chitwood and wife Gladys of Desloge, sisters-in-law: Judy Bennett of Piedmont and Wanda Chitwood of Poplar Bluff; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and a host of dear friends.

Barb’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family will be remembered always. She leaves behind a legacy of faithfulness, generosity, and deep devotion that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be held at 12:00 noon, Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Ruegg Funeral Home, Piedmont Chapel. Funeral service will follow at 1:00 pm, also in the Piedmont Chapel. Burial will be in Potter Cemetery, Ellington, MO. Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com

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