Barbara Ruth Marshall
1921-2018
Barbara Ruth "Bobby" Marshall's lovely life came to an end on December 24, 2018 at home at the age of 97. She shared joy, kindness and an appreciation of beauty with her family and many friends; our memories of her will always bring warmth to our hearts and smiles to our faces.
She was born October 26, 1921 to Edward Frank and Nellie Faye Brumbaugh Schroeder, descendants of German immigrants, in El Dorado, Kansas. She was and remained the cherished baby of the family, with two older sisters - Lorraine and Evelyn - and an older brother, Duart. At high school in Great Bend, Kansas, Bobby was quite proud of her accomplishments in elocution. More than just a smart student, she was also named Rhorea Queen, Demolay Sweetheart and received other honors based on her good looks and charm.
After attending business school, she worked as a secretary in Great Bend, where she met the gallant lad who became her lover and husband, Jack Marshall. With Jack assigned to Chanute Field, Illinois, during World War II, Bobby moved to Chicago and worked in an office in the stockyards.
Bobby and Jack were married September 19, 1943. Jack's career in petroleum engineering and the frequent moves it required gave Bobby many opportunities to create comfortable and attractive homes for their family, which came to include son Mike, born in 1949, and daughter Robbie, born in 1953.
A pivotal period in her life was the four years they spent in Tripoli, Libya, where Jack managed Oasis Oil Company. They loved the adventure and challenges of expatriate life, which furthered their abiding interest in travel to new and exciting places.
Upon retirement in 1984, Bobby and Jack built their dream home at Walden on Lake Conroe, where they became an integral part of the community. Golf both at home and on fabulous courses around the world was a big part of their retirement years. Bobby served on various committees in the golf and ladies' associations and volunteered for several organizations, including the Montgomery County Library.
Having first studied art many years ago, Bobby's interest in painting truly flourished in her 80s and 90s. Always intrigued by interesting colors and textures, she once again created works of art both representational and abstract, much treasured by the lucky recipients.
Bobby's flair for esthetically pleasing combinations extended to her taste in clothing, handbags, jewelry and home decoration. Her wardrobe attracted compliments from acquaintances and strangers alike.
Active to the end, Bobby regularly enjoyed happy hour at the Yacht Club, mahjong games, attendance at April Sound Church, yoga class, and virtually any social activity that connected her to other people. Her brilliant smile, genuine sweetness and perky sense of humor were endearing to all who knew her well.
She is survived by son Mike and his wife Laura, daughter Robbie and her partner Henry, along with many nieces, nephews and loving friends.
The memorial service will be held at 2 pm on Friday, January 18, 2019, at April Sound Church, 67 1/2 April Wind South, Montgomery, TX, followed by a reception at the Walden Yacht Club, 13101 Melville Drive, Montgomery, TX.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Bat Conservation International, batcon.org, the Montgomery Library, www.folstewart.org, or to the organization of your choice.
The family would especially like to recognize Renea Swanner, Bobby's longtime companion and co-conspirator, for her love and care throughout their association, and especially during the last few difficult weeks. Thanks also to the relatives, neighbors and friends who provided their support and comfort.