Barbara Lee Lawson

Barbara Lee Lawson, 89, passed away on October 12, 2026, in Warrensburg, Missouri. She was born on October 12, 1937, in St. Louis, Missouri to Howard Fricke and Ethel (Bentzinger) Reynolds.

Barbara will be remembered as a woman whose life was centered on the people she loved. She earned her degree from MacMurray College in Jacksonville, Illinois, and carried herself with grace, warmth, and a lively spirit throughout her years. She had a love for horses and was an avid equestrian, a passion that reflected both her strength and her joy. She also loved her family deeply and treasured the time she spent with them. Her friends were equally important to her, and she found happiness in entertaining, decorating for all of the holidays, and opening her home for parties and gatherings that brought people together.

To her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Barbara was lovingly known as Mimi, a name that speaks to the affection and closeness she inspired across generations. Her home, which she lovingly decorated for every holiday, was a place of welcome, celebration, and lasting memories.

She is survived by her daughters: Michelle Nunes and her husband Tony of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Cheryl Hammer and her husband Gary of Warrensburg, Missouri. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Chelsey Goodall, Chase Mateker, Ashley Nunes, Ana Nunes, Angela Nunes, AJ Nunes, Chloe Goodall, Charlie Goodall, and Gunnar Mateker. Barbara is also survived by her sister, Betsey Turner; her brothers, Ronald Woodruff and Chris Fricke; and by her niece and nephew, Andrea Turner and Steven Turner.

She was preceded in death by her father, Howard Fricke; her mother, Ethel (Bentzinger) Reynolds; and her brother, Don Fricke.

Barbara’s life was marked by love, generosity, and the special gift of making others feel at home. She leaves behind a family who will carry her memory forward with gratitude and love, and many cherished moments that will continue to be remembered for years to come.