MINER, BARBARA LEONA "GOUDE", 81 , a resilient and compassionate soul, departed this world on March 5, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and strength. Born on January 27, 1943, in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, to Leon and Nora Goude, Barbara's journey through life was marked by dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to her loved ones.

From a young age, Barbara exhibited exceptional intelligence and drive, attending a Lutheran school in St. Louis, Missouri, where she excelled academically and graduated at the tender age of 15. Determined to build a life filled with love and purpose, she married at 17 and embarked on the journey of motherhood.

Despite the challenges of raising a growing family, Barbara's thirst for knowledge never waned. She returned to school to pursue her nursing degree, a decision that opened doors to better opportunities. Her career path took her through various roles, including security at the refinery and caregiving in nursing homes, where her compassion and dedication touched the lives of many.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Barbara found joy in simple pleasures, such as watching "Wheel of Fortune" and caring for injured animals. Her heart overflowed with love and empathy, as she nurtured countless creatures back to health and welcomed them into her home with open arms.

Barbara's outspoken nature and fierce loyalty endeared her to those around her. Like an old mother hen, she fiercely protected her family and spoke her mind with honesty and candor. Yet, beneath her tough exterior lay a heart of gold, always ready to offer warmth and support to those in need.

Above all else, Barbara cherished her role as a mother and grandmother. Her love knew no bounds as she poured her heart into nurturing and guiding her children and grandchildren. Her memory will forever be cherished by her sons, Randy Nickelson (Kim) and Roger Nickelson (Trish), her daughter Dawn McClure (Troy), and her cherished grandson/son, Damion Nickelson (Cheyenne), along with a host of extended family members.

Barbara leaves behind a rich tapestry of love and memories, including her siblings, Clara Watt, Denise Black, and her sisters-in-law, Sherry Goude McCutchen, Jeanette Smith (Truman), and Mary Birdsong (Bobby). She is also survived by numerous grandchildren, "Randy's" Christopher, Casey, Kayla, "Dawn's" Jeffery, Whitney, "Roger's" Damion, Natasha, Ivanna, Dakota, Kenny, Storm, Barbara, Payne "Easton", RJ, and 19 great-grandchildren, and 3 Great-Great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews., each a testament to her enduring legacy of love.

While we mourn Barbara's passing, we take solace in knowing that her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her memory be a blessing, and may her gentle soul find eternal peace in the embrace of the heavens.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Leon and Nora Goude, her first husband, Patrick Nickelson, her son, Patrick Kevin, her brothers, Bob and Gary, her sisters, Ophelia, Shirley, and Anna, as well as two granddaughters,  Lindsey Anne McClure, Dawn Marie Papps, and grandson Dante Raymond..

Funeral service will be held on Monday, March 11, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Heritage Funeral Home, 206 E. Central Ave., El Dorado. Interment will follow at Sunset Lawns Cemetery, El Dorado.