Barbara Ann Prince

Barbara Ann Prince, a faithful follower of Christ, died of complications from Alzheimer’s disease Aug. 4, 2025 in St. Peters, MO.

Barbara was born Feb. 14, 1942 in Grosse Pointe Park, Mich., the daughter of Elizabeth Kober and John Bellamy, Barbara was raised in Evanston, IL by her mother and Joseph Beukema, her stepfather.

A midwestern woman, Barbara graduated from Evanston Township H.S. and attended Valparaiso University. Barbara met the love of her life, Gary Albert Prince, in Evanston. Barbara and Gary married Nov. 25, 1961 and raised four sons and one daughter.

Barbara’s young family relocated to many states due to Gary’s work. These included Illinois, Texas, Idaho and Missouri. Everywhere she lived, Barbara developed dear friendships, whom she often met in the local Lutheran Church. Her love of Jesus guided her faith journey throughout her life. She and Gary were charter members of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Arlington, TX.

Barbara’s study of the Bible was incredibly important to her. She completed a rigorous, two-year, Bethel Ministry teacher training course with Gary. As their children grew and eventually made homes for themselves, Barbara continued to grow in her love of God and His ministry. She supported Gary, who received a call to ministry himself and, once again, Barbara relocated. This time, back to the Midwest she fondly missed, to Concordia Seminary in St. Louis where she supported Gary until graduation.

Gary and Barbara then accepted a call to Grace Lutheran Pocatello, returning to Idaho. All the while, Barbara humbly served many roles as a pastor’s wife: school lunch lady, caterer, cake decorator, carpenter, housekeeper, and nanny among them.

When The Lord called Gary home in 1996, Barbara returned to the Midwest, where she became a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Harvestor, MO. She earned an Associate Degree in Lay Ministry from Concordia University WI. Shortly afterwards, Barbara became a full-time nanny for a recent widower and his two young boys. She enjoyed singing alto in the choir all while being a loving grandmother and great-grandmother. Barbara attended Bible studies and actively participated in her beautiful church where she remained a beloved member until transferring from the Church Militant to the Church Triumphant.

Barbara is survived by two brothers, Philip Beukema of CA and Lewis Bellamy of FL; five children: David (wife Amy) of WA, James (wife Leslie) of MO, Mark (wife Julie) of ID, Timothy (wife Michelle) of WI and Christine Prince of ID; 13 grandchildren: Andrew, Samuel, Michael, Ryan, Adam, Tyler, Sarah, Nathanael, Joel, Rebecca, Taysha, Shantell, Tenesha and 16 great-grandchildren; nieces, Katherine and Alyson; nephews, Richard and Bryan.

A memorial and resurrection celebration will be held Sept. 19 at 10:30 at Zion Lutheran Church 3866 Old Hwy 94 S. St. Charles, MO.

Memorials may be given in Gary’s name to Concordia Lutheran Seminary, 801 De Mun Ave., St. Louis, MO 63105