Barbara Ann Jones

Barbara Ann Jones, affectionately known as Barb, passed away peacefully at home on April 19th, 2026.

Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m., Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Faith United Church in Brandon. Visitation with family present to greet friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Friday, April 24, 2026 at Faith United Church with a 7:00 p.m. Prayer Service.

Barb was born on June 24, 1939, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Reinhold “Red” Bethke and Margarie (Wood) Bethke. In 1948, her family moved to Oldham, SD where they owned and operated the Oldham Bar. Barb graduated from Oldham High School in 1957 and later returned to Sioux Falls to attend the Stewart School of Hairstyling in 1958.

In 1959, Barb married Jack Mader, and together they were blessed with three children: Kim, Jackie, and Bart. Tragically, Jack passed away in a car accident in 1962. Barb found love again and married Lynn Jones in 1963, and they welcomed one son, Blaine. Lynn preceded her in death in 1992.

Barbara dedicated many years of her professional life working in Medicare and health insurance until her retirement in 2001.

She found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. Barbara was an avid reader and a gifted crocheter, lovingly creating afghans, scarves, hats, ponytail holders, and countless other treasures for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was instrumental in helping establish the Prayer Shawl Ministry at Faith United Church. Barbara also enjoyed playing cards with friends several times a week and faithfully served her church as both a Deacon and an Elder.

She never missed a chance to enjoy her favorite ride, “It’s a Small World.” Anybody who knew her knew her deep love for Elvis Presley. Above all, Barbara cherished time spent attending the many activities and events of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Barb’s house was always the gathering place and she is remembered for the gravity of her affection and abiding family togetherness.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Reinhold and Margarie Bethke; her brothers, Dennis “Denny” Bethke and Michael “Mike” Bethke; her husbands, Jack Mader and Lynn Jones; and her sons-in-laws, Daniel Christensen and James VerMeer.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Kim Christensen, Jackie VerMeer, Bart Jones (Ronda Rubin), and Blaine (Annie) Jones.

Her grandchildren: Jamie VerMeer, Julie (Michael) Westphalen, Justin VerMeer, Andy (Amy) Jones, Nathan (Harpreet) Jones, Jarod (Beth) Jones, Brittany (Tucker) Stewart, Scarlett (Jacob) Felix, Tucker (Kati Antonie) Melmer, Molly (Joshua) Biber, Maddie Melmer, Brodie Jones, Christian Jones, and Ainsley Jones.

Her great-grandchildren: Aria, Emmalyn, Tysen, Avery, Allie, Breckin, Raiden, Liam, Lakin, Logan, Lexis, Cade, Caileigh, Nolan, Emilia, Ivory, and David.

She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Lillian Bethke; nieces Kay Lynn (Tim) VanHolland and Stacey (John) Sieverding; nephews Danny (Sharon) Bethke and David (Mary) Bethke; great-nieces Ava Sieverding, Sara (Warren) Ross, and Amanda (Matthew) O’Neil; great-nephews Cole VanHolland, Carter VanHolland, Hunter Sieverding, Travis (Ayla) Bethke, and Trevor (Sarah) Bethke; along with a host of other beloved great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews.

Barbara also leaves behind her dear friend, Dick Coots and a multitude of others who considered Barb and additional mom and grandma.

Barbara’s life was defined by her unwavering faith, her servant’s heart, and her deep devotion to family.  She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.