Barbara Jean Gullion

Barbara “Barb” Gullion age 75 of Oklahoma City passed away on January 28, 2025. Barbara Jean Martine was born on January 10, 1950 to William Wayne Martine and Emelie Rose Ann Martine (Kadlubec). Barbara had a difficult childhood but overcame adversity with the love and support of her Aunt, and cousins who became like siblings to her. She attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School in McAlester, where she graduated with the class of 1968. From there Barbara earned her Associates Degree at St. Gregory’s University in Shawnee, and completed a Bachelors Degree at ECU in Ada. She was married young to Ken Lester, and they were blessed with one son, Ryan. Barbara always had a compassionate heart and loved to care for others. She spent most of her career working in the Department of Health and Human Services for the State of Oklahoma. She cared for those in need with unwavering dedication, and left a lasting impact on the lives she touched. In 2000, Barbara met John Gullion online and their relationship quickly blossomed. They were married on November 9, 2002 in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. John and Barbara loved to travel, they took road trips to California and Georgia, and went back to Arkansas to commemorate their 10th and 20th anniversaries. When she wasn’t working Barbara loved to search yard sales and flea markets for good deal and great finds. She enjoyed spending time in the kitchen whether it was working on a meal for her “Sunday Dinner Crew” or making candy at the holidays, Barbara always lent a hand and had a new recipe to try. She was a Red Hat member and looked forward to their outings and events. Though health and mobility issues plagued her the last few years of her life, Barbara maintained a positive out look and an infectiously bright attitude about her situation. She found comfort and peace in the presence of her family, and her beloved pets. She was a kind soul, ever present in the lives of those she loved, who will be dearly missed. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents William Martine and Emelie Tate, her brother Bill Howell, ex-husband Ken Lester, sister-in-law Mary Constant, and brother-in-law James Gullion. She is survived by her husband John Gullion of Oklahoma City. Her sons Ryan Lester and wife Megan of Atlanta, GA, and Mike Gullion and wife Megan of New Braunfels, TX. Her brothers-in-law Paul Gullion of Clinton, and Harvey and wife Paula of Oklahoma City. Her sisters-in-law, Neva Maxwell, Charlotte Gullion, Joann Cragle, and Linda Champion. She also leaved behind two grandchildren Alex and Emma, and numerous nieces and nephews. A Memorial Service is scheduled for 10:00 am Friday, January 31, 2025 at Little’s Chapel, and a Rosary Service will be held at 6:00pm Thursday January 30, 2025 at Little’s Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to the Purcell Animal Shelter. The family would like to invite everyone following the service at 12:00 P.M. for a time of fellowship at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church Parrish Hall, 307 W. Jefferson St. Purcell, OK 73080.

Barbara Jean Gullion

January 10, 1950 - January 28, 2025