Barbara Crotchett
March 4, 2026
Barbara Crotchett peacefully passed away Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
Barbara was born November 23, 1939, in Wichita, Kansas and graduated from East High School. She earned a degree in English from The University of Kansas. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She utilized her time giving to others through various volunteer organizations. She was most passionate about the Wichita Symphony Ambassadors where she could support her love of classical music.
Barbara was a member of Second Church of Christ, Scientist, Wichita where she served in many capacities. She endeavored to put God first in everything she did in her desire to serve others. Her church family was very important to her.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Barbara Lesher; her brother, Keith Lesher; and her husband, Eugene Crotchett.
She is survived by her children, Greg Crotchett (Glenda) of Edmond, OK, Julie Garrett (Greg) of Fairfield, OH and Steve Crotchett of Wichita KS; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.
Memorials have been established with: Second Church of Christ, Scientist, 4501 E. Douglas, Wichita, KS 67218; and Wichita Symphony Orchestra, 225 West Douglas Ave. #207, Wichita, KS 67202.
Celebration of Life will be at 2:00 pm, Friday, March 20, 2026, at University Congregational Church.
Arrangements in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuary – East Chapel.
Services
Celebration of Life: Friday, March 20, 2026 2:00 pm
University Congregational Church
9209 E. 29th St. N.
Wichita, KS 67226
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Barbara Crotchett 's name.
Second Church of Christ, Scientist
4501 E. Douglas Ave.
Wichita,
KS
67218
Wichita Symphony Orchestra
225 W. Douglas Ave., St. #207
Wichita,
KS
67202
Memories Timeline
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I was so sorry to hear of Barbara’s passing. I will miss our daily morning chit-chats.
Tonia Benoist
I am so thankful for the time spent with Barbara when we were neighbors. My son, Eli, used to roll in her empty garbage cans up her driveway (his first exposure to hard work on behalf of others). Her kindness will stay with me until it’s my turn. Peace be with you all.
I love Barabara. She showed such love to everyone, totally inclusive, a true Christian and I miss her. She often invited me and many others to her beautiful home, especially on days when she knew that many didn’t have family plans such as the 4th of July, and also “just because” days. She repeatedly would tell us that it would be informal but one always arriived to a beautifully set table and a good meal being prepared. I could go on and on about the beauty, generosity, love and friendship expressed by Barbara and I only knew her for two and half years! I know that she is still expressing that love and intelligence and I send love to her family.
Patricia Dawkins
I was so blessed to call Barbara my aunt! She was such a dear human who embodied grace, love, kindness, and a pure, calm sense of the Almighty. I have such wonderful memories from childhood to adulthood, too many to share. I will cherish these memories and think of her often.
Aimee Smith
My Aunt Barbie was the best aunt a girl could ever have! She was my friend and my book buddy. She was goodness in every ounce of her body. Aunt Barbie was true to her beliefs and spread love and goodness to so many people. She made the world a better place and will be sorely missed by many.
Very sorry for your loss, and my condolences to you and your brothers. Unfortunately, we’re all entering that stage of life. Hope you were able to spend quality time with her before she passed.
I have treasured Barbara’s friendship since college days when we were freshman living on the same floor in the dorm. She expressed a quality I admire, she is mon- judgmental. I have never known her to say a harsh word about anyone. She saw people as God made them, as precious beings. I loved Barbara and will miss her.
We are so blessed and grateful for knowing Barbara as a teacher and a dear family friend. I will miss how special she made us feel every time we see her and treasured catching up with her over lunches after church. We always considered her a part of our family and she will be dearly missed! We are thinking you all today. Sorry we can’t make it to celebrate her with you but you and your family are all in our prayerful thoughts…XO
Tracy, Mike, Hayden & Riley Warner