Olvera, Barbara K. 1948-2024 Des Moines, Iowa

By NewsPress Now

DES MOINES, Iowa – Barbara Kathryn Olvera (Gilley), passed away on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at her home in Des Moines, Iowa. Barbara was born in St. Joseph on March 26, 1948, to Raymond and Anna Gilley. She grew up in St. Joseph and graduated from Bishop LeBlond High School in 1966. On Nov. 24, 1967, she married Jesus “Jesse” Olvera Jr. Throughout her life, Barbara worked at American Family Insurance, American National Bank, Reardon Machine Company and St. Joseph City Hall.

Barbara is lovingly remembered by her husband and their two children, Daniel E. Olvera (Stephanie) and Michael A. Olvera (Heather), all residing in Des Moines. She cherished spending time with her grandchildren, Aspin, Brody, Braden, Bella, Brecken, Bay and Brennen. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren, Xander, Paislee and Dreyvin.

Barbara is survived by her siblings, Patricia Brahler, of Colorado, and Raymond Gilley, of Missouri.

Her parents and grandparents preceded her in death.

In accordance with Barbara’s wishes, there will be no funeral services. Instead, she has requested that donations be made to the Bishop LeBlond scholarship fund in her memory, in lieu of flowers. Those who wish to donate can send a check to St. James School at 5815 Pryor Avenue, St. Joseph, MO 64504, and put in the memo, “LB scholarship in memory of Barbara Olvera.” As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.