Fittingly, on the first day of spring, God called, and Barbara Jean Bates answered. Barbara transitioned to eternal life at 3:10 a.m. on March 20, 2026.

Barbara, the only child of Joseph Squires and Vivian Crowder Squires, was born on November 9, 1937. She received her education primarily in parochial schools in St. Louis, Missouri, including the all-girls Rosati-Kain Academy, and later pursued studies in political science.

Barbara's children were her greatest pride: Linda, an attorney; Rickey, a music director, producer, and professional disc jockey; Maria, a civil servant and educator; Karyn, an executive-level consultant; and Lisa, who had a developmental disability and passed away in her youth.

Barbara, widely known as Granny, was a beloved grandmother figure to everyone. Her greatest joy was her grandchildren: Darrick, Jill, Dorian Sr., Ratesha, Heather, Ricardo ("Joe"), and Cydney; her great-grandchildren, including Dorian Jr., whom she raised; and her great-great-grandchildren, including Amaya and Messiah, both of whom she helped raise. She lived to see twelve great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren.

Barbara's children and grandchildren still sing the songs she taught them, which she learned at Camp Derricotte, a historic African American camp for girls and women.

Barbara believed deeply in the potential of others and devoted her life to helping them succeed. She worked tirelessly with young people and under-resourced communities, helping many complete their education, pursue meaningful careers, and create new opportunities. Through her encouragement, practical support, and unwavering belief in their abilities, she helped countless individuals change the course of their lives. Her impact spanned from the Midwest to Southern and Central California.

Professionally, Barbara was a career counselor, program administrator, and educator, as well as a passionate advocate for civil rights and social justice. When she saw inequity, she took action. Appalled by the lack of adequate resources for struggling families in Missouri, she stepped into a leadership role within a grassroots coalition committed to change. She helped organize protests at the Missouri State Capitol, coordinated advocacy efforts, and worked closely with legislators to advance meaningful reform. Through her leadership and persistence, the group influenced policy decisions that led to the governor signing legislation resulting in the largest increase in assistance to needy families in the state's history at that time.

Barbara received numerous awards, accolades, and recognition for her tireless work in the pursuit of justice. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the barriers she helped dismantle, and the lasting improvements she secured for families in need. Barbara will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her unwavering commitment to others and the hope she brought into so many lives.

"Well done, my good and faithful servant."