Barbara Jean Schaffner

Barbara Jean Schaffner, a beloved homemaker, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and steadfast woman of faith, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2026, at Medical City North Hills in North Richlands Hills, Texas. Born Barbara Jean Permenter on March 7, 1940, in Finley, Tennessee, she lived a life marked by grace, love, and deep spiritual commitment.

Barbara’s journey was one of remarkable character and dedication. Early in life, she graced the world as a professional model, bringing elegance and warmth to every endeavor. She later embraced the role of a flight attendant, carrying grace and kindness into the lives of countless individuals. Yet it was in her role as wife, mother, and grandmother where Barbara’s true legacy shone brightest. She became a devoted wife to her late husband, Hirchie Schaffner, and the loving mother to her children, Hirchie Schaffner II and Susan Mary Schaffner Fowlkes, who has preceded her in death. Barbara’s nurturing spirit extended to her five grandchildren — Joshua Fowlkes, Elizabeth Fowlkes, Emma Ramirez (Caleb), Evan Schiffner, and Annalise Schaffner — each of whom was deeply cherished and loved.

Barbara’s unwavering faith in Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of her life. She served Him faithfully, touching many lives through her involvement in several churches and ministries. Her spiritual journey included active participation in Orlando Christian Center, Dyersburg First Assembly, Dyersburg Church of God, and The Gathering Place Ministry Church, where she served as a prayer team leader. At the time of her passing, she was a committed attendee of the 516 Ministries in Fort Worth, Texas. Those who knew Barbara recognized her as a shining example of the light and love of Jesus, leaving behind a lasting legacy of faith, love, and prayer that will inspire generations to come.

Barbara was born to George Permenter and Eula Anderson Willis, with a stepfather, Johnnie Willis. She was also preceded in death by her uncle William Anderson and aunt Buelah Wheeler. Surviving her are her son, Hirchie Schaffner II; brothers, Johnnie Lee Willis and George A. Taylor; and half-sisters, Margaret Goegebuer and Gwendolyn Brinkman, who remember her fondly and carry forward her memory with love.

Family and friends are invited to honor Barbara Jean Schaffner’s life and legacy on May 21, 2026, with a visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. at Dyersburg Funeral Home, located at 420 US-51 ByPass West in Dyersburg, Tennessee. Following this, a graveside service will be held at Cool Springs Cemetery, 37 Cool Springs Road, Cool Springs, Tennessee, starting at 11:00 a.m.

Serving as pallbearers will be Jamie Autry, Paul Stewart, Bob Autry, Justin Sowell, Evan Schaffner and Caleb Ramirez.

Memorials may be directed to 516 Ministries at www.516ministries.org

Barbara life reflected a profound commitment to family, faith, and kindness. Her memory will remain a beacon of love and strength to all who knew her.