Barbara Jean Burstert, 88, of Richmond passed away Thursday, June 19, 2025, at NorthCare Hospice House, North Kansas City, her loving family by her side.

Barbara Jean Burstert was born Feb. 13, 1937, in Topeka, Kan., the daughter of Kenneth Everett and Mildred Pearl (Land) Brooks.

She was united in marriage to Roy Francis “Buster” Burstert of Hamden on Oct. 26, 1957. He preceded her in death on July 15, 1997.

Survivors include her son, Brian Burstert and his wife Kipper of Richmond; and daughter Melanie Schreier and her husband Kevin of Lexington. Other survivors include six grandchildren: Joshua (Abby) Burstert, Christopher (Chelsea) Burstert, Allie (Chris) Edwards, Courtney (David) Chaney, Stephanie (Kyle) Brockhaus and Haylee (Blake) Barlow.

She also is survived by 12 great-grandchildren: Avery, Lucy, James, Claire and Caylee Burstert; Olivia Edwards; Beau Chaney; Mackenzie Chaney; Kynlee Brockhaus; Karsyn Brockhaus; Kamryn Brockhaus; and Rollie Barlow. One brother, Richard “Dick” Brooks of Overland Park, Kan., survives as well.

In addition to her husband, Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; son, Bruce Duane Burstert; great-grandson, Christopher Brian Burstert Jr.; and three brothers, Larry Brooks, Dean Brooks and Jerry Brooks.

Barb was raised and educated in Marceline, where she graduated from high school.

In addition to raising her children, she worked outside the home at Duvall’s Shoe Store in Richmond. She also enjoyed helping out at several area antique shops.

A devoted mother, Barb deeply loved her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was known for her warm, recognizable smile and her surprisingly modern taste in music.

Barb loved socializing, whether gathering with family and friends or enjoying a beer together. She had a passion for antiques and took great joy in collecting them over the years.

She shared a special bond with her younger brother. Their favorite phrase together was, “It is what it is.”

Barb was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Richmond.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to either the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church or the Ray County Humane Society. Memorial contributions can be either dropped by or mailed in care of the family to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Funeral services were scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 24, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Richmond. Visitation was scheduled for 6-8 p.m. Monday, June 23, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. Burial was to be in Woodland Cemetery, Richmond.

Please share your condolences and special memories of Barb with the family by visiting wwwthurmfuneralhome. com.