Barbara Jean Espinosa, 83, passed away Oct. 15, 2025, at Hays Medical Center, Hays, Kan. She was born on Feb. 16, 1942, in Great Bend, Kan., to Melvin Clay and Frances Elizabeth (Jackson) Simpson. On May 9, 1972, she married Robert “Bob” Espinosa in Riverside County, Calif. He survives.

A lifetime resident of Great Bend, Barbara was a reflexologist and herbologist, owning and operating Specials Herbs and Vitamins. She also worked as a waitress at the Holiday Inn and other area restaurants. Barbara was a member of Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. She was a talented seamstress, enjoyed flower gardening, crafts, baking, fishing, and hunting. Barbara loved spending time with her friends and family, including her long-haired dachshund, Deliah.

Survivors include her husband of the home; son, Paul Frazier of Springfield, Ill.; daughters, Natalia Espinosa of Great Bend, and Tammy Gilbert of Ava, Mo.; seven grandchildren, Patrick Gilbert and wife Danielle, Chris Gilbert and his wife Emily, Rileigh Wagner, Dylan Frazier, Dalton Frazier, Scott Frazier, and Bobbi Jo Frazier; many great grandchildren and great great grandchildren; brother, Kenny W. Simpson and wife Denise; sister, Ruby Feil of Great Bend; numerous nieces and nephews; and witness and friend, Roy Mitchell of Houston, Texas. She is preceded in death by her parents; son-in-law, Michael Gilbert; brother, Melvin W. Simpson, Jr.; sisters, Doris Case and husband Glenn, and Nelta Jones and husband Jerry; and brother-in-law, Ron Feil.

Cremation has taken place and services will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, Oct. 31, 2025, with Roynold Mitchell presiding at Bryant Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Road

Great Bend, KS  67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Oct. 28, 2025