Barbara Lea Keller

Barbara Lea (Joy) Keller, loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend, passed away on Sunday, October 16, 2022, at the House at Midland Care in Topeka, KS. She was 65 years old. Barbara was born in Topeka, KS, to George Joy and Myrtle Bacon on May 25, 1957, the third of six children.

Barbara will be remembered for her genuine love of her children and grandchildren, her strong faith as a devout Catholic, her love for Jesus, her contagious laugh, and her beautiful heart.

Barbara lived in Topeka for most of her life. She graduated from Topeka High School in 1975.

After graduation, she worked for Merchant’s National Bank for six years and then Mize, Houser, Mehlinger, & Kimes CPA for six years. She worked for Hotel Corporation of America and retired from Sunflower Supports in 2020. Barbara was involved with the Altar Society and frequently participated in adoration. She was a volunteer for Special Olympics and an advocate for children with disabilities.

Barbara was married to Jerry Debacker from 1976-1987. Barbara was later married to Gary Keller on May 16, 1997.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, stepmother Ruth Joy, husband Gary Keller, brother Len Spencer, and beloved dog Princess.

She is survived by her three children: Mark Debacker, Michael (Stephanie) Keller, and Faith Keller; three grandchildren: Jakob Debacker, Ryleigh Debacker, and Lucas Keller; step-children: Karlin Keller and Kyle Keller; siblings: Richard Joy, Mary Joy, Rhonda Weber, Tammy Marrow, Carla Joy, Becky Carter, and Ned Rahlfs; many nieces and nephews; and her dog Lady.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her loving memory to the Special Olympics which helped her daughter, or to Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, and sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6^th Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66603.