Katherine L. Barber

“Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Matthew 11: 28,29
Mrs. Katherine Louise Barber was born on May 5, 1921, to the union of the late Callie McFarland and John Brandon in Vincennes, Indiana. Thereafter, she relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana, with her loving family.
She loved the Lord and accepted Christ at an early age. She was a former and active member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church, where she served in several capacities. Katherine received her formal education in the Vincennes Community School System.
Katherine had a passion for playing her piano and keyboards. She also loved singing gospel hymns. You could often hear her singing every gospel song of which she could imagine. She was fond of nature and enjoyed being outdoors. Prior to her failing health, she was an avid camper and enjoyed many trips to the lake with her family. She loved playing a good card game of Pokeno. Katherine was affectionately known as Kay Kay and would pass time, watching her favorite daytime talk show, The View. Family BBQs were not a true gathering without her famous BBQ sauce.
Katherine was united in holy matrimony to Robert L. Barber and enjoyed years of marital bliss.
After years of employment, she was blessed to retire from Church World Services. Kay Kay was an entrepreneur and co-owner of “Katherine’s Hats and Wigs.” Katherine’s Hats and Wigs was a staple in the city of Indianapolis and was a reliable source for the best brims, wigs, and Easter bonnets.
Mrs. Katherine L. Barber was truly blessed and lived a fulfilling life. She departed this earthly life at the age of 101 years, 11 months, 3 days. She leaves to cherish her memory: daughter Barbara (Tony) Presutti; Grandsons, Burt (La’Channa) Riley, and Michael Messer. Granddaughters, Mia Messer, and Angela Lindsey; and a host of great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, special great-granddaughter and care giver, Brenna Riley. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert L. Barber; parents, Callie McFarland, and John Brandon; daughters, Anita Brinkley, and Pauletta Lindsey; grandson, Paul David Hill.
Special thank you to grandson and primary caregiver, Burt Riley, and the wonderful IU Hospice staff.