Barbara A. Decker

Barbara A. Decker, age 91, of Topeka, KS, passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning, July 29, 2026, at Rolling Hills Assisted Living of Topeka alongside the compassionate care of Midland Hospice.

She was born the daughter of Homer C. and Velda R. (Leach) Walker on January 31, 1935, in Hardtner, KS. Her family later settled in Emporia, KS, where Barbara graduated from Emporia High School in 1953. She continued her education at Clark’s Business School, in Topeka, studying accounting. As her children grew older, Barbara entered the workforce in 1972 as a bookkeeper for Shawnee Heights School District, where she worked until 1985. She later worked as a bookkeeper at Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, retiring in 1998.

Barbara met, fell in love with, and married James “Jim” M. Decker on February 19, 1954, at Holy Name Catholic Church. Together, they shared 68 years of marriage before Jim’s passing on August 4, 2022. Family was at the center of Barbara’s life. She and Jim loved traveling, attending family reunions, and hosting gatherings that brought their loved ones together. Barbara also had a creative and artistic spirit and enjoyed making unique ceramic pieces, many of which remain treasured keepsakes among her family today.

Barbara’s Catholic faith was a guiding presence throughout her life. As a founding member of St. Matthew Catholic Church, she faithfully gave her time and talents to her parish. She was active in the St. Matthew Altar Society, St. Rita’s and Holy Family Altar Guilds, the Activities Committee, and Perpetual Adoration. She also served as a Girl Scout Leader, was a member of the Medical Assistants of Shawnee County and volunteered with Let’s Help.

Above all, Barbara cherished her family and lived with a deep devotion to her faith. Her love for those around her, her servant heart, and her commitment to her Catholic faith will remain an enduring part of her legacy.

Survivors include her daughter, Cathy Robertson; two sons, Mike Decker (Kathy), and John Decker (Lisa); six grandchildren, Trudi (Shawn), Nyk, Tashina (Kyle), TJ, Jessica, and Katlynn; seven great grandchildren, Chance (Aly), Casi (Morgan), Kris (Emma), Calina, Cooper, Robbie, Riley; as well as four great-great grandchildren, Kinsley, Matilda, Gemma, and Warren.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jim; son, Patrick A. Decker; one great-grandson, Colten; and a brother, Harold Walker.

She will lie in state from 5-7:00 P.M., with a rosary prayed at 7:00 P.M., on Monday, August 10, 2026, at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 A.M., on Tuesday, August 11, at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 2700 SE Virginia Ave., Topeka, KS 66605. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery-Topeka.

Memorial contributions can be made in Barbara's memory to St. Matthew Catholic Church and/or American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023. Contributions can be left or mailed to the funeral home.

To honor Barbara's memory, we invite you to share your stories, photos, and favorite moments on her memorial page at www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.