Barbara Jay O’Dea was born on April 4, 1932, at Orleans, Nebraska, to John T. and Della P. (Decker) Merrill. As a young lady Barbara attended school in Elmer and Wauneta, Nebraska.
    Barbara married Robert Eugene O’Dea on Jan. 18, 1954, at Sidney, Iowa, and the couple first settled in Omaha, Nebraska. Barbara and Robert lived in several different states and abroad in Scotland, following Robert’s work with Chicago Bridge and Iron Company. The couple also resided in the communities of Trenton and Palisade, Nebraska, before retiring in Wauneta.
    Barbara enjoyed crocheting, knitting and rug hooking. She especially loved to fish with her husband, Robert, whenever she could.
    Barbara passed away Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 23, 2018 at the Wauneta Care and Therapy Center. She was 86 years of age.
    Survivors include: daughter Kay Goings of Wauneta, Nebraska; son Russell O’Dea of North Platte, Nebraska;  grandson Bob Goings and wife Peggy of Wauneta, Nebraska; grandchildren GraCee and Gunner Goings; Chloe, Izabelle and Alex Stehno, and Lesley Towery; brother Richard Merrill and wife Patty of Denver, Colorado; sister Marilyn Koelmel and husband Robin  of Denver, Colorado; sister Joyce Hutchins of Inverness, Florida.
    Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert; sister Elsie Kerchal, son-in-law Fred Goings; granddaughter-in-law Mindi (Lemberg) Goings.
    Cremation was chosen. Private family services will be held at a later date.
    A memorial has been established in Barbara’s memory.
    Online condolences may be left at liewerfuneralhome.com.
    Liewer Funeral Home of Wauneta entrusted with arrangements.