Barbara Jean Allsup, affectionately known as “Barb” to her friends and family, passed away peacefully at her home in Richland on Friday September 6, 2024, at the age of 61. Born on October 1, 1962, in Fairfield to Melvin Wayne and Karen Justine Purden Luke.
Growing up in Glasgow, southeast of Fairfield, Barb’s early education took place in Lockridge and she completed her schooling in Fairfield. Barb’s life was one of hard work and love for her family. Her journey through life was marked by a strong work ethic, which was evident when she began her career as a maid at a local motel at the age of 14. It was during this time that she met the love of her life, Bob Allsup. Together they embarked on a life filled with adventure and companionship. They were joined in marriage on July 10th, 1987. They lived in various places, including Ohio and Florida, where they picked fruit side by side. Eventually, they settled in Richland, where Barb quickly ascended to the position of manager within a week of starting at Cobb Oil Company at Richland’s Gas and Goodies. She worked for 25 years at the Richland station.
Barb’s dedication to her community showed through her involvement with the Little League, which started with her son at a young age. She invested time in maintaining the ball field grounds and working the concession stand during games. Also contributing to beautifying her beloved town, Richland. She served on the Richland Ballpark board and found joy in watching baseball games, particularly cheering for the Cincinnati Reds and her grandchildren Carter and Remington Allsup. An avid NASCAR fan, Barb attended numerous races at several tracks, showcasing her zest for life and passion for sports.
Music also played a significant role in Barb’s life. She would spend many hours blasting her radio to Michael Bolton, Blake Shelton, Lonestar and so many more while doing various household tasks. However, it was her family, especially her grandchildren, that brought her the most joy.
Barb’s memory will be treasured by her devoted husband, Bob, her loving mother, Karen of Fairfield, her son Jeremy (Alley ) Allsup of Richland, and her siblings: Melvin (Kathryn )Luke Jr. of Ollie, Gilly ( Susan ) Luke of Ollie, John (Donnetta) Luke of Florida, and her sister, Tammy Luke of Altoona. She was a proud grandmother to Carter and Remington Allsup, and Felicia Luke. Her life was a beacon of love and joy for her many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and a host of friends who will miss her dearly.
Preceding her in death were her father, Melvin Sr., and her son, Jeffery Allsup, who passed away in infancy.
A funeral service to celebrate Barb’s life will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, September 12, 2024 at Cranston Family Funeral Home in Fairfield with Jerry Hoover officiating. The visitation will commence at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at the same location, with the family present from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM to receive friends and loved ones. Barb will be laid to rest in Old Methodist Cemetery in Richland immediately following the service. Memorials may be made in Barb’s honor to Richland Ballpark and may be left at the funeral home or mailed to Jeremy Allsup at 106 East High Street, Richland, IA 52585.
Barb’s life was a testament to her unwavering spirit, her commitment to her community, and her boundless love for her family. She will be remembered as a woman who lived life to the fullest, never one to sit idle, and always seeking to make the most of every moment. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com
