Barbara Ann Toan's Obituary
Our beloved Barbara Ann Gentry Toan passed away peacefully on November 12, 2021. She was born in Dallas, Texas to Paschal and Veda Gentry in 1926. Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, husband Fred Lewis Toan, son Stephen Lewis Toan, and daughter Ann Marie Turner. She is survived by granddaughter JoAnn Marie Cross of Gainesville, nephews Greg Rhodes and Tim Rhodes of Colorado, Bob Rhodes of Idaho, and daughter-in-law Vicki Toan of Allen.
Barbara attended Woodrow Wilson High School in Dallas, where she enjoyed being a cheerleader. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Texas at Austin.
After graduating from college, Barbara was hired as the very first receptionist at the Dr. Pepper Company’s corporate office in Dallas where she worked for five years. She always talked about how much she loved her job at Dr. Pepper and was devoted to the Dr. Pepper soft drink for the rest of her life. While working there in 1952, she was chosen to be “Alice from Dallas”. This honor was bestowed upon the girl selected by the Dallas Jaycees to act as official hostess at their National Convention held in Dallas. Barbara would officiate at many ribbon cutting ceremonies, grand openings, etc. This honor included several prizes, including a trip to Nassau.
She met her husband, Fred while working at Dr. Pepper. They were married over 50 years. Barbara was extremely devoted to Fred, their children, and their beautiful home, which Fred designed and built. They enjoyed many years playing golf together at the Northwood Club. The family also enjoyed spending every weekend at their lovely farm, north of McKinney. Barbara’s family loved the Dallas Cowboys. They never missed watching their games together.
Graveside service to be held on Monday, December 6, 2021, at Restland Funeral Home in Dallas. All are invited. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hope Cottage in Dallas in memory of Barbara.
Funeral arrangements for Ms. Barbara Ann Toan have been faithfully entrusted to Restland Funeral Home and Cemetery, which is located at 13005 Greenville Ave., at the intersection of Restland Road, Dallas, Texas 75243, and can be reached at (972) 238-7111.
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