Barbara Ann Meyer, aged 78, of Forney, Texas, passed away on January 3, 2026. Known for her unwavering dedication to family and community, Meyer left a lasting impact on those who knew her.
Born on October 22, 1947, to Jimmie Peter Mikulenka and Mildred Agnes Mikulenka, Barbara was a proud graduate of St. Joseph High School, Class of 1965. She pursued further education at Baldwin Business School, which led her to a career in public service.
Barbara began her professional journey at the Dewitt County Health and Human Services before moving to the Victoria County Social Security Office as a Claims Specialist. Her career continued to flourish when she married Carl Meyer in August 1972, prompting a transfer to the Houston Social Security Office. Here, she balanced her role as a Claims Specialist with her duties as a mother to her children, Stephanie and Kevin.
After relocating to the Dallas area, Barbara took on a position with the Internal Revenue Service as an Administrative Assistant in the Criminal Investigation Department. Prior to her retirement, she served as the secretary for Greenland Hills United Methodist Church in Dallas.
Barbara’s life was enriched by her role as a grandmother. After retiring, she embraced her responsibilities as “Nana” to her grandchildren, Owen and Zeke Whisenant. She cherished family gatherings and enjoyed vacations, especially those spent at the beach. Her greatest joy stemmed from her devotion to her family, which included her daughter, Stephanie Whisenant (Adam), and her siblings, Jimmie Don (Verlene) and Gayle Parenica (Ronnie).
Barbara’s passing leaves a significant void. She is survived by her family and several nieces and nephews, but is preceded in death by her parents, son Kevin Meyer, her former spouse, Carl Meyer, and her brother, Kenneth Mikulenka.
Visitation will take place at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home at 18:30 on January 8, 2026, followed by a Rosary at 19:15. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Yoakum at 10:00 on January 9, 2026, officiated by Rev. Matthew Huehlefeld. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Yoakum.
Pallbearers will include Adam Whisenant, Owen Whisenant, Zeke Whisenant, Ronnie Parenica, Wesley Mikulenka, and Tyler Paschal.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic School or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The arrangements are being handled by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home, which can be reached at 361-293-5656. Barbara Meyer’s legacy of love and service will be remembered fondly by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
