Barbara Kay Michael, age 80, passed away peacefully with family at her side, on September 2, 2024.

Barbara was born April 14, 1944 in Wichita Kansas; she was the youngest of the four Smith children.

Preceded in death by her devoted and loving husband of 47 years (David Michael), both parents (Stephen and Irene Smith), sisters (Geraldine Lewis and Joyce Mercer).

Survived by her only child and daughter (Stephanie Awtrey), grandchildren (Kayla and Colton Awtrey), brother (Jerry Joe Smith), nieces and nephews who referred to her as "Auntie Kay".  She loved them dearly and enjoyed taking them to Six Flags over Texas every summer when they visited her in Dallas.

Barbara's grandchildren were her pride and joy.  She never missed a school or sporting event – traveled with their sports teams and wore their jersey proudly.  She introduced Kayla and Colton to Joyland, the Zoo, the Mall, so many Bowling Alleys, Theaters, Drive-Ins and Restaurants.  So proud, saved everything they touched or created.  Had a way of making everything special, random holidays, silly traditions, celebrating every birthday.  Best Nanny ever …

Barbara graduated from West High in 1962.  In her yearbook, friends and teachers commented that they will "miss her warm smile and friendly personality".  She retired from Boeing in 2012, after 30 years-of-service.  Her proudest moment was working on Air Force One and loved the idea of working on "The Flying White House".  She cooked for her co-workers and family almost non-stop.  Every night it was a birthday cake for a co-worker.  Cooking was most definitely her love language.  She would even make a "Recipe Book by Barbara" every Christmas and pass them out as gifts.  She loved knitting scarves and blankets and every spring she bragged about her purple iris flower garden.

Barbara and David were married on February 19, 1976 – only 3 days after being set-up on a blind date.  They snuck-off to Newkirk Oklahoma, got a marriage license and married at First Christian Church.  They were best friends and built an incredible and meaningful life.  Together, they will be laid to rest at a private event at Kansas Veterans Cemetery in Winfield Kansas.

A public Celebration of Life will be held the following week on September 24 at 10:30 AM at Riverlawn Christian Church, 4243 N Meridian Ave, Wichita Kansas.

Arrangements are with Affordable Cremations Plus, Wichita, Kansas.