Mildred May (Barker) Fritschle

Mildred May (Barker) Fritschle, 96, of Poplar Bluff, MO, passed away Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at her residence. She was born to parents Charles E. “Ed” and Ruth (Conner) Barker on May 8, 1927, in Wappapello, MO. She graduated from Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) with a bachelor’s degree in English and taught school for thirty-seven years in several southeast Missouri schools, retiring from the Ferguson-Florissant School District. She then had a lengthy career as an editor for a publishing company in St. Louis.

Mildred was a loving mother, sister, aunt, and friend. She had a passionate love for reading, was a member of the American Association of University Women, and was widely traveled, having visited all fifty state and several foreign countries.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brother: Jack Barker.

Mildred is survived by her son: Tom Pierce of Poplar Bluff; adopted son: Dan Ferrell of Waterloo, IL; brother Charles Barker and wife Kate of Qulin; sister: Nelda Griggs and husband Jim of Silva; three nieces, and seven nephews. Mildred will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude for the love and compassion extended to Mildred by caregivers at Southern Care and Comfort in Poplar Bluff.

Mildred expressed her desire to move from this life to one with her Heavenly Father, and her loved ones celebrate that as they grieve her passing.

Graveside visitation was held at 12:30 pm, Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at Greenville City Cemetery. Graveside service followed at 1:00 pm, also in Greenville City Cemetery. Dr. Amy Harrison and Chaplin Dennis Ward ministered to the family. Jim Ed Griggs, Josh Harrison, Hailee Harrison Gayla Brinkley, Alex Ruegg, and Jason Wright served as pallbearers. Burial followed service.  Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com

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