Barbara Ann Branson

In Loving memory of Barbara Ann Branson, known as "Mommis" to her family, went home to be with the Lord on July 23, 2026, at the age of 83. She passed at the University of Kansas Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family.

Barbara was born on February 21, 1943, in Higginsville, Missouri, to Marjorie and Alfred Lieser. Throughout her life, she exemplified hard work, unwavering devotion, and a selfless commitment to her family. Her greatest joy came from spending time with those she loved, especially gathering with friends and family in Olathe and making cherished memories at the Lake of the Ozarks. She lived a life centered on service and unconditional love.

On June 20, 1964, Barbara married the love of her life, Richard "Dick" Branson. Their story began in the seventh grade, and they started dating during their junior year of high school. Together, they built a beautiful life over 62 years of marriage, raising two sons, Jeff (Amy) and Michael (Sandy), while making memories with their six grandchildren: Richard "Rick", Derek, David (Morgan), Logan, Nathan, and Kyle.

Barbara graduated from the University of Central Missouri in 1963. She began her career as a second-grade teacher in Ogden, Kansas, then taught third grade in Manhattan, Kansas, while supporting Dick as he completed veterinary school. The couple then moved to Dayton, Ohio, where Dick served as a captain in the Air Force. During those years, Mommis continued her love of teaching by working as a substitute teacher while standing faithfully beside her husband.

In 1970, they began their next chapter in Olathe, Kansas, where Dick began his love of veterinary medicine at Cherokee Animal Clinic. Barbara later became the clinic's bookkeeper and Dick's steadfast partner behind the scenes. She also dedicated herself to raising their two sons, creating a loving and supportive home that remained the heart of her family.

That same love and devotion continued through the next generation. Mommis treasured every moment with her six grandchildren, and you could often find her in the stands, cheering them on at their sporting events. She was, without question, their biggest fan.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Marjorie and Alfred Lieser, and her brothers, Jim Lieser and Keith Lieser, all of Higginsville, Missouri.

A visitation will be held on Monday, July 27th, at Grace United Methodist Church, 11485 S. Ridgeview Road, Olathe, KS 66061, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., with the service immediately following.

To her family, Mommis was a constant source of love, encouragement, and strength. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and in the family she loved so deeply.