02/24/2026
Barbara Jean (McFarland) Grilz, 90, went peacefully to be with her Lord on February 21, 2026, while at home in Frontenac, KS, surrounded by family.
Born in Frontenac, KS, to Claud and Mary (Manion) McFarland, Barbara spent her entire life making southeast Kansas her home.
While attending Frontenac High School, Barbara loved being in school plays, was Editor of the school paper, a cheerleader for four years, and football queen in 1953. After graduating from FHS in 1953, Barbara attended Kansas State Teachers College (now Pittsburg State University) where she earned a Bachelor’s in Education in 1956, a Master’s in Education in 1962, and was a
member of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority. Barbara later taught third grade for twelve years (1956-1968) at Eugene Field Elementary School in Pittsburg, Kansas. Barbara was voted Teacher of the
Year in 1960 and still had former students who kept in touch with her. Although Barbara chose to stay home and enjoy her family for several years, she eventually returned to the classroom as a
substitute teacher at Frank Layden Elementary School before becoming the secretary at Countryside Christian Church from 1981-1987. At that time, Barbara decided to focus solely on
opportunities to spend time with those most important to her.
To Barbara, family was the center of her world. She met and later married the love of her life, Frank Grilz Jr., in 1958 at the Frontenac United Methodist Church. They were blessed with one daughter, Lisa, in September 1968, who was also raised in Frontenac and married Todd Amershek.
Yet, it was when Barbara finally became a grandmother that her world turned brighter than she ever imagined. To say she was proud of Lukas and Claire, her “Angels,” would be an incredible
understatement. Barbara eagerly provided support, guidance, and wisdom to her grandchildren with unwavering compassion and upmost dedication. She worked diligently to instill principles of excellence such as respect for others, the importance of routines and organization, the significance of work before play – and invariably highlighted the ultimate ideal of having faith in
God. Barbara was a true teacher at heart and passionately worked to help raise her grandchildren as her own. Both Lukas and Claire recognized how Grandma loved their smiles, treasured their
hugs, and admired their kind hearts.
Additionally, along with Frank, Lisa, Todd, Claire, Lukas, and Lukas’ wife, Maggie, Barbara was able to take numerous trips, appreciate time outdoors, and take part in multiple family events. If ever there was an opportunity to participate in an activity, Barbara was immediately eager to be involved and absolutely loved every moment. Barbara refused to miss any of her grandchildren’s events and could always be found arriving early to save seats in the front row as one of their biggest fans. Furthermore, she delighted in family vacations that often included her mom, brother, Bob, and his family - Eileen, Mike, and Molly. Barbara also enjoyed driving to
Cushman scooter shows across the country with Frank and spending time with friends, either casually or at their organized monthly dinners and car shows. To her, reliving and sharing
memories from all these experiences were almost as valuable as the actual occasion. Barbara treasured all moments with others and genuinely cherished the gift of time.
Regardless of the situation, as a devout believer and dedicated Christian, Barbara always put the Lord first in her life. She earnestly encouraged others to join her at church and in reading the Bible, which she religiously did every day. Barbara could often be found sitting outside on the swing with her husband simply enjoying life and what God provided. Whatever the circumstance, Barbara always focused on the positive and sincerely believed in serving the Lord.
Barbara was preceded in death by her mother, Mary, and father, Claud. She is survived by her husband, Frank of the home, daughter, Lisa Amershek (Todd), grandchildren, Lukas Amershek
(Maggie), and Claire Amershek. She is also survived by her brother Bob McFarland (Eileen), as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A visitation will be held from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 27, at Brenner Mortuary Pittsburg, KS. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 28, at Countryside Christian Church Pittsburg, KS, with Reverend Jim Frech officiating. Burial will follow the service at Mt. Olive Cemetery Pittsburg, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Countryside Christian Church. These may be left at or mailed to
Brenner Mortuary (114 E. 4th St. Pittsburg, KS). Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS.
