She was born on February 3, 1953, in Shiner, Texas to Victor and Pauline Marko. Barbara grew up in Moulton, Texas, and even at a young age, Barbara was liked by everyone. She was a class favorite and Miss Future Homemaker of America 1971.

After graduating Moulton High School in 1971, she married Gary Braun in August 1975 in Moulton, Texas, and they remained married for thirty-four years. They moved to Houston where she went to work for Shell, and they welcomed their first child, Russell in 1978.

Weimar became home in 1980 where she worked for Herder Truck Lines, welcomed baby Carrie in 1982, started a flower shop, and worked for Hill Bank. Barbara and her family moved to Columbus in 1987, and her work focus soon turned to being a supportive wife and mother.

She was dedicated to her philanthropic efforts including Pilot Club, Columbus Community Hospital Auxiliary, and was an active member in First United Methodist Church Columbus - even completing a walk to Emmaus. She attended every school and sporting event of Russell and Carrie’s and probably has the pictures and programs saved to prove it.

Barbara was the kindest person to anyone she met, and she never complained. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 and

■ BRAUN, 13 suffered from an autoimmune disorder which left her unable to walk without assistance.

Through all of that, she continued to share her love and caring heart with the world. Even in her most recent hospitalization and through her pain and discomfort, all of the staff and nurses frequently commented on Barbara’s kindness and pleasantness.

Barbara was truly one of a kind and loving person from her earliest years to her last days and every day in between.

Barbara’s biggest accompl ishment and her pride and joy was her family. Her son, Russell, and daughter, Carrie, gave her a fulfillment that carried her throughout her life. When her first grandchild was born on May 15, 2010, and her second grandchild was born eleven days later, her joy and purpose became evident to anyone and everyone who met her.

She was a BB to five grandchildren in all and shared a special bond with each of them. The spark in her eye and love in her smile when one of them entered the room said it all. There wasn’t a day that passed where she wasn’t thinking of, talking about, visiting with, or worrying about her children and grandchildren.

They meant everything to her, they made her happy, and they fulfilled her purpose of being the most unconditionally loving mother and grandmother ever. She had a gift of making each of her grandchildren feel like they were her favorite, and she cherished each one for their individual gifts and uniqueness. Barbara “BB” Braun, you may have left your earthly life, but your love has forever changed the lives of those who were blessed to know and love you.

Barbara is preceded in death by parents Victor and Pauline Marko. She is survived by her two children, Russell (Ericka) Braun, Carrie (Keith) McRee; five grandchildren, Madison and Carson McRee, Brady, Belle, and Brooke Braun; siblings Jeannette Pietsch, Victor (Carol) Marko, Deborah (Randy) Dierschke; eight nieces and nephews; and fifteen great nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held on Thursday, April 17, at 2:00 p.m. at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus, with Pastor Alan Kethan officiating. Visitation was from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask your consideration in donating to the nonprofits which support the education of Barbara’s grandchildren, St. Anthony Catholic School, 635 Bonham St., Columbus, 78934, PEAK Proud, 9711 S Mason Road, Suite 125 #404, Richmond, 77407 or to St. Paul Lutheran Church, Attn: Share Your Christmas, P.O. Box 267, Columbus, 78934, or to Columbus Community Hospital Foundation, 110 Shult Dr., Columbus, 78934.

Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome. com.