Barbara Jean Kenney, born on October 6, 1948, in Red Oak, Iowa, to Byron C. and Ruth E. (Robson) Beeson, passed away December 9, 2024. She was raised on the family farm south of Red Oak, where she attended school at Coburg and Red Oak, graduating with the class of 1966. Barbara went on to earn a degree in Elementary Education from Northwest Missouri State University in 1970.

On April 25, 1971, Barbara married Bruce Nelson Kenney in Red Oak. The couple lived in Omaha before returning to the family farm in Nevada in 1975. Barbara's passion for teaching was evident in her work as an elementary school educator. She taught in Council Bluffs from 1970 to 1975, and later returned to teaching in McCallsburg, where she taught 2nd and 4th grade from 1986 until her retirement in 2002. Barbara cherished her role as a teacher and found joy in learning alongside her students.

After retiring, Barbara devoted herself to her family, her many community organizations, and volunteer work. She enjoyed camping with friends, spending winters in California and Florida, and attending the Iowa State Fair. She also volunteered with numerous organizations, including Heartland Senior Services, the Blue Ribbon Foundation, Oak Hill Cemetery, Terrace Hill, and Quilts of Valor. Barbara was a dedicated member of PEO, Questers, the Daughters of the American Revolution, the American Legion Auxiliary, the Richland Garden Club, several card clubs, sewing groups and a master gardener.

A woman who lived life to the fullest, Barbara loved meeting new people and learning new things. She often said, "There are no strangers, just friends I haven't met yet." Barbara was a cherished friend, wife, mother, and grandmother. She took great joy in her family, her friendships, and the many ways she served her community.

Barbara is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Bruce; her son Mark (Julie) Kenney, and grandchildren Lauren and Landon Kenney of Ankeny; her daughter Elaine (Will) Axmear, and grandchildren Olivia and Brooke Axmear of Nevada; and her brother Alan (Cindy) Beeson of Red Oak. She was preceded in death by her parents, her in-laws, and her brother-in-law, David.

Barbara's legacy of kindness, generosity, and love will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

A visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Thursday, December 12, 2024, at Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home (1418 Fawcett Pkwy) in Nevada.  A memorial service will be 11 a.m. Friday, December 13, 2024, at the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) (250 W E Avenue) in Nevada.  Inurnment will be at Oak Hill Cemetery in rural Nevada.

Memorials may be made to Oak Hill Cemetery in memory of Barbara.

Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home in Nevada is handling arrangements.  Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.rasmussonfh.com.