Barbara R. Seidel

Barbara Seidel, 90, of Rosanky, passed peacefully at her home surrounded by loved ones on November 18, 2025.

Barbara was born to Sophie and Matthew Michalski in Cistern on February 28, 1935. She had three sisters- Dorothy, Eileen, and Elaine. She had many fond memories of their childhood with her sisters and they all remained close friends as adults. Their father died when Barbara was 7 and they moved in with her mother’s parents- Lena and Frank Waneck. Barbara’s childhood was filled with working on the farm and in the cotton fields, but she found time to develop a love of reading and learning. She graduated Valedictorian from Smithville High School. She fell in love and married Gilbert Seidel at the age of 17.

Barbara and Gilbert moved to Barstow, Ca while Gilbert served in the Marines for 2 years. Then they returned to Texas to settle down and start their family. They were blessed with seven children- four boys and three girls. Barbara stayed busy with her young family cooking, canning, sewing, babysitting, gardening, being involved at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, teaching CCD, and loving her children and of course dancing on Saturday nights! When all her children were in school and older, she became a librarian aide for the Smithville School District.

Barbara’s biggest joy was her children and their spouses- Sandra (Paul), Terry, Alan (Tina), Carolyn (Ronny), Peggy (Ricky), Neil (Karen) and Chris (Maureen). She was so proud of and loved her 19 grandchildren (and their spouses) and her 45 great grandchildren.

In the quiet years, Barbara continued to love visiting and laughing. She was very witty! She loved family gatherings. She loved to pray. She prayed one or more rosaries each day. Barbara enjoyed flowers, quilting, recipes and reading! Thank you Smithville Library!

She was preceded in death by Terry, Gilbert and Neil

Visitation will start at 3:00pm and Rosary at 4:00pm on Sunday, November 23, 2025 at Marrs Jones Funeral Home in Smithville, Texas.

Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30am on Monday, November 24, 2025 at St. Mary's Catholic Church with burial following at St. Mary's Cemetery in String Prairie, Texas.