Barbara Jean Obholz

Barbara Jean Obholz, age 75, passed away on December 6, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri. A lifelong resident of Hays, Kansas, Barbara was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend whose gentle spirit and warm heart touched all who knew her.

She was born on August 7, 1950, to Charles and Frances (Bolllig) Wooldridge in Hays, KS. She graduated from Hays High School in 1968.

On November 23, 1968, Barbara married the love of her life, Joseph Obholz, and together they built a family rooted in love, commitment, and devotion. Their marriage remained a treasured foundation throughout her life.

Barbara enjoyed the simple joys of life—spending time with her family, listening to music, bowling, and playing bingo. She found happiness in these moments and shared that joy generously with those around her.

She is survived by her son, Joseph Obholz Jr.; her daughters Tammy (Clint) Slater, Amy (Brett) Becker, Melisa (Dustin) Hansen, and Susie (Trevor Engel) Obholz. Barbara was blessed with twelve grandchildren: Haley (Justin) Smead, Caleb (Bec) Jellison, Karsyn Becker, Jackson Becker, Payton (Lauren) Garrison, Dawson Garrison, Brennon Garrison, Maci Garrison, Makayla Garrison, Motsi Slater, Miah Slater, and Braedon Cunningham and beloved brothers and sisters Billy (Nancy) Wooldridge, Patty Wooldridge, Phil Wooldridge, Tudy Wooldridge, Pam (Roy) Driskill, Bruce (Elonda) Wooldridge, Brian (Annette) Wooldridge, Nancy (Skip) Wooldridge and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by, her husband Joseph Obholz, her father Charles Wooldridge, her mother Frances (Bollig) Wooldridge, her son-in-law, Michael Garrison; and her sisters Sharon Gottschalk and Mary “Flossy” Winters.

Barbara will be remembered for her kindness, her laughter, and the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Donations in her honor can be made to any of her children.

Graveside services will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery - Hays, Kansas on February 14, 2026, at 12:00 pm.

Local services in care of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory – Brock’s Chapel, 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601.

Memories and words of comfort may be shared with Barbara’s family on her tribute page via: www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com