Barbara June Granato

Celebration of Life for Barbara June Granato will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at The Armory (101 Webb) in Brownfield. Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Monday, August 4, 2025, at Brownfield Funeral Home.

Barbara was born in Wichita Falls, TX, on June 6, 1939. She was the daughter of Lucille & Papa George Kempson, and Cromer Knox. She gained her wings on July 30, 2025, at the age of 86.

Barbara, or known to most as "Babbles," grew up in Brownfield. She met her soulmate, Joe Granato, at West Texas State University, where she was a cheerleader and Chi Omega, and he was a football player. They married on August 19, 1961, in Brownfield, beginning their dance of 64 years together. Their adventures took them across the country, moving countless times, pursuing Joe's coaching career and Babbles’ passions ranging from dancing, writing, and traveling to educating and connecting with new and old friends. Many memories were spent with Babbles, hosting her family and friends while cooking her famous spaghetti.

A dedicated educator, Babbles earned her master’s degree in psychology from the University of Oklahoma, eventually becoming a Diagnostician specializing in special education. She had a profound impact on the lives of her students, guiding them with compassion and understanding. Babbles never missed a football game, showing her unwavering support for her husband and sons, and sponsoring Tonia’s cheerleading squads with endless fun. Alongside her commitment to education, Barbara and Joe ventured into entrepreneurship, owning a travel agency in Denver, Colorado, where they created cherished memories together.

Family was the heart of Babbles’ world. She brought the best out in everyone because she truly believed each person was the best. She provided love unconditionally for all those around her and her loved ones, celebrating their successes and encompassing a refuge in times of need. Her exquisite calligraphy and lyrical words adorned many cherished cards, serving as a reminder of her kindness and creativity. Each handwritten note she crafted was a labor of love, treasured by those fortunate enough to receive them. Babbles also enjoyed playing cards with her family and her lifelong friends, whom she lovingly referred to as the "Lunch Bunch."

Babbles’ laughter was contagious, and her ability to comfort those around her was a rare gift. Babbles was a bright light with an unwavering faith, and God’s presence illuminated through her and into the lives of those fortunate enough to know her. She had the most beautiful smile, laugh, soul, and told inappropriate jokes better than most. Babbles embraced life; the good, bad, happy, and sad. She leaves behind a legacy of love.

Barbara was preceded in death by her baby boy, Tregg David Granato, her parents, Lucille and Papa George Kempson, and Cromer Knox; and brother, Junior Knox. She is survived by her husband, Joe Granato; children, Tonia Dawn Newsom and Todd Derek and wife, Lori Granato; daughter-in-love, Karen "K.K." Granato; son-in-law Larry Newsom; grandchildren, Tate and wife, Rhiannon Newsom, Morgan Newsom, Mallory and husband, Kyler Williams, Tonie Granato, Jake Granato, Charli Granato, Tatum and husband, Ryder Edmister, and Piper Granato; great-grandchildren, Summit and Scout Newsom, Trace and Slade Webb, Knix and Kread Williams, and Derek and Lane Zavesky; brother, Johnny Knox; sister, Penny and husband, Danny Rimer; and numerous beloved, extended family and friends.

Thank you to Dr. Shane & Rachel Hord and all the nurses, staff, and volunteers at Promiseland Assisted Living and Bridge Hospice for caring for and loving our Babbles.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donating in Barbara's memory to: Promiseland Assisted Living (Alzheimer's Home), 3315 40th St., Lubbock, TX 79413, or Shriner’s Children’s.