Barbara Jean Hancock

Barbara Jean York Hancock, born July 15, 1935, went home to her Lord on Friday, October 20, 2023, after a lengthy health struggle.

Barbara grew up in Henderson, Texas, the only child of Eugene and Elfin “Dolly” York. In Henderson, Barbara met the love of her life and future husband, Dean Hancock. They both attended Kilgore Junior College, where Dean was the Drum Major and Barbara was a member of the renowned Kilgore Rangerettes.

In 1955, they married and settled in Fort Worth. Barbara was very supportive of the family business, but her number one priority was being a loving and devoted mother to their three children, Cary, Kelly, and Pattilinn. Barbara was active in their church, serving in youth ministry and adult choir. As a member of the Fort Worth Woman’s Club, she supported many good causes and made life-long friends.

Barbara exuded radiant life and beauty. As a talented decorator, she shared that beauty and innate good taste with many. She was the epitome of grace and the consummate hostess, hosting countless gatherings, parties, and events in their home and at their Decatur ranch.

For a small, delicate woman, Barbara was surprisingly adventurous. She enjoyed hiking, snow skiing and motorcycle riding in New Mexico. She joined in many adventures with her children and grandchildren. Barbara and Dean loved to travel and were deeply involved with Charles Stanley’s InTouch Ministries. They participated in the InTouch cruises, running the bookstore and serving as advisors to the Stanley family, with whom they were close friends. On these trips, Barbara, who made friends easily, formed many lasting friendships.

Barbara’s grandchildren adored her for her loving, cheerful, fun, and indulgent personality. One granddaughter recalled that “Bar” would “literally let us do anything!” In addition to planning many fun events over the years, on New Year’s Eve, Barbara would stage elaborate parties for all eight grandchildren, creating special memories for all. She also attended as many school and sporting events as possible.

Barbara will be sorely missed by her many survivors: husband, Lester Dean Hancock; children, Cary Hancock, Kelly and Robin Hancock, and Patti and Cory Priest; grandchildren, Layne Hancock, Chloe Hancock Cox, Skylar Hancock Frederick, Laramie Priest, C.J. Hancock Thornton, Harrison Hancock, Dakota Priest, and Steelie Priest Allison; and nine great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the Anchor of Hope Hospice team, especially our precious Ginny, as well as the entire staff of Grand Brook Memory Care in Grapevine, for their gentle care of Barbara in her last days.

The funeral will be held at Cross Church in North Richland Hills on Friday at 2 p.m., with fellowship following. The family requests that attendees wear bright colors in honor of Barbara’s exuberant spirit.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Cross Church DFW’s Parlor Renovation Fund, with any excess funds going to Cornerstone Assistance Network and the Kilgore Rangerette Scholarship Fund.

A reception will be held immediately after the service at Cross Church.