URGENT UPDATE: Barbara Ann Meyer, aged 78, of Forney, TX, has sadly passed away on January 3, 2026. This beloved mother and grandmother leaves behind a profound legacy of love and dedication.
Meyer was born on October 22, 1947, in Yoakum, Texas, to Jimmie Peter Mikulenka and Mildred Agnes (Samora) Mikulenka. A proud graduate of St. Joseph High School’s Class of 1965, she later attended Baldwin Business School, marking the early steps of her impactful career.
Barbara began her professional journey at Dewitt County Health and Human Services before transferring to the Victoria County Social Security Office as a Claims Specialist, a role she excelled in for many years. After her marriage to Carl Meyer in August 1972, she continued her work at the Houston Social Security Office until she dedicated herself to motherhood, raising her daughter, Stephanie, and son, Kevin.
Following a relocation to the Dallas area, Barbara further contributed to the community by working as an Administrative Assistant in the Criminal Investigation Department of the Internal Revenue Service. Upon her retirement, she served as the secretary for Greenland Hills United Methodist Church in Dallas, where she was known for her warmth and dedication.
Barbara’s greatest joy came from her family, especially her grandchildren, Owen and Zeke Whisenant. She cherished moments spent with them, nurturing their growth and happiness. Known for her passion for family vacations at the beach, Barbara created lasting memories that will be fondly remembered.
Barbara is survived by her daughter, Stephanie Whisenant (Adam) of Forney; her brother, Jimmie Don (Verlene); her sister, Gayle Parenica (Ronnie) of Victoria; sister-in-law, Bernice Mikulenka of Moulton; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Kevin Meyer, her former husband Carl Meyer, and her brother Kenneth Mikulenka.
Visitation is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on January 8, 2026, followed by the Rosary at 7:15 p.m. at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home. The Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on January 9, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Yoakum, officiated by Rev. Matthew Huehlefeld. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Yoakum.
Pallbearers include Adam Whisenant, Owen Whisenant, Zeke Whisenant, Ronnie Parenica, Wesley Mikulenka, and Tyler Paschal. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to St. Joseph Catholic School or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The community mourns the loss of Barbara Meyer, a woman whose life was a testament to love, family, and service. Arrangements are being handled by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home, which can be reached at 361-293-5656.
