Barbara Rier Wennemark's Obituary
Barbara R. Wennemark, age 92, passed peacefully on April 8, 2026, in Germantown, Tennessee.
Barbara was born on November 2, 1933, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Lawrence and Gladys Rier. She was raised in Memphis and graduated from Messick High School, where she was a cheerleader and proudly crowned “Miss Messick.” Known affectionately throughout her life as “Boonie,” Barbara carried warmth, grace, and joy wherever she went.
Barbara worked for many years as a travel agent, a career well suited to her love of exploring the world. Together with her beloved husband, Jim, she enjoyed countless domestic and international trips, creating treasured memories along the way.
Music played an important role in Barbara’s life from an early age. She grew up playing the piano and later shared her gift by playing for the Hymn Sing Group at The Village of Germantown, where she resided for many years.
A strong and faithful Christian, Barbara lived her faith through both word and example. She was an active and devoted member of Germantown United Methodist Church, where she faithfully served the Lord she loved so deeply.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James Wennemark; her sister, Donna Thomas; her grandson, Hunter P. Willett; and many cherished friends.
She is survived by her children, Sherrye S. Willett and Larry R. Stewart; her stepchildren, Cindy Takegami (Ken) and Bobby Wennemark; her son-in-law, Paul Willett; her great-grandson, Shawn Willett; her niece, Lisa Dean (Gary); her nephew, James “Jet” Thomas (Elizabeth); her brother-in-law, Jim Thomas; and her three lifelong friends from childhood, Margaret Miller, Nancy Jo Deaton, and Betty Lyons.
Barbara will be laid to rest in a private service on April 13, 2026.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have kept the faith.”
— 2 Timothy
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