Barbara Elaine Sullivan (née McKenna) of Ballwin, Missouri, fortified with the Holy Sacraments of the Catholic Church, died in-hospital on November 7, 2023, after long struggles with mental and physical illness. 

Barbara was born October 23,1948 in St. Louis, Missouri to Donald and Betty McKenna (née Sedlacek). She is survived by her husband Michael J. Sullivan, sons Timothy Sullivan, Kevin Sullivan, and John Sullivan and their spouses Elyssa Sullivan, Cheryl Sullivan, and Aja Sullivan, cherished grandchildren Thomas Sullivan, Danny Sullivan, Elizabeth Sullivan, Anya Sullivan, Connor Sullivan, Austin Sullivan, beloved sisters Linda McKenna, Carol Nelson, and Peggy McKenna and their spouses, and beloved cousins Kathy Hensler, Susie Duggan, Nancy Mellor and their spouses, and many friends.

Barbara lived her life with courage and joie de vivre. Barbara’s enthusiasm for life was reflected in her infectious smile, bubbly personality, quick laughter, and ability to attract and maintain real friendships. She is a former Snow Queen at Lindbergh HS, a former Prom Magazine reporter in HS, and began her lifelong interest in French language and culture during innovative early language training while in primary school. In 1969 while an undergraduate at Webster University she joined a group of students from Penn State Univ for her Junior Year Abroad at the Université de Montpellier in southern France where she made many lifelong friends. 

Barbara and Michael were married December 26, 1970 at Our Lady of Providence Catholic Church and she moved to Kansas City where Michael was employed. In 1972, after 2 yrs of teaching at Belton MO Public High School, Barbara was hired as the first full-time female teacher at all-male-student-body Rockhurst Catholic HS in Kansas City and while employed there was a founding member of the Jeune Alliance Française in that city.

Barbara faced her illnesses with stoic determination and faith in God’s love. She accepted the frailties of being human while believing in a God of love, joyfulness, and forgiveness.

A funeral mass, burial of cremated remains, and a wake will be held on March 23, 2024 in remembrance and celebration of Barbara’s life.