Barbara Nell Prater

 Barbara Nell (Covington) Prater was born in Hot Springs, Arkansas on May 12, 1944, to Alec and Lessie (Brunt) Covington. She was raised in Stinnett, Texas, where her dad worked on a drilling rig until he was transferred to Fairfax, OK by Service Drilling when she was nine years old in 1953 where she finished her schooling. Growing up as a tomboy, she once climbed a tree to retrieve her big brother's cat, as he couldn't climb. While attending school in Junior High, Barbara was in the band and was a cheerleader. In 1958, she met her future husband Pat Prater, they were united in marriage on December 17, 1960, at the First Methodist Church in Hominy. To this union, two children were born, Tonya and Poncho.

 Barbara went to work at the Corner Drug in 1967 for Loudon Pettit and Martin Brown and continued employment there even when the store sold to Robert Slamans.  A fire destroyed the business in 1995 and brought an end to her 25 years there.  Barbara was well known by students for her cherry limeades and chocolate malts. After the fire, she took employment with Timmons Oil, working there for 15 years. She retired in 2009, the same year as her husband, and they enjoyed traveling in their MX5 sports car. A favorite spot to go to was Melba's Café in Norman, Arkansas which was owned by Barbara's cousin. She always said that they served the best fish, hot tomatoes and beans. Barbara loved cooking for her family, homemade chicken noodles and lemon pie were some of their favorites, along with her cinnamon rolls. Family was important to her, and enjoyed time spent with her grandchildren, great grand and great great grandchildren, with another on the way. Another favorite pastime was talking with her sister-in-law Vicki; as well as tending her flower garden.

 Barbara passed from this life on Tuesday evening, June 9, 2026, at her home at the age of 82 years. Those that survive and hold many cherished memories include her husband, Pat; children Tonya Henry and Pat (Poncho) Prater, Jr; Lisa, who came to live with Pat & Barbara when she was 12 years old, and became one of their kids. Also surviving are grandchildren Tuffy, Lysa, Will, Cheyenne Paige, Cheyenne and Hoss; as well as 15 great grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother and a niece Lisa.

 Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Monday, June 15, 2026, in the sanctuary of the Nazarene Church, Hominy with Dusty Giles and Carl Brown officiating. Visitation for Barbara will be from 2pm - 6pm on Sunday at the Powell Funeral Home. Arrangements and services have been entrusted to the Powell Funeral Home, Hominy, OK.