Barbara J. Dowell, 91, a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026.

Barbara was born on May 5, 1935, in Fort Morgan, Colorado to Rudy and Bernadine (Parr) Neumann. She spent most of her life in the North Platte and McCook areas, where she built lifelong friendships, raised her family, and became known for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for those around her.

Barbara graduated from McCook High School in 1954 and later married Don Lieberth. Together they welcomed five sons into the world: Dan, Thomas, Larry, Jerry, and Garry. Her boys were the light of her life, and she devoted herself to raising them with love, strength, and determination.

Life brought Barbara to North Platte, where she met the love of her life, Edward "Ed" Dowell. The two were married on November 26, 1966, and together built a life centered around family, friendship, and unwavering love. Their son, Steven, completed their family.

For more than 55 years, Barb and Ed shared a love story that was evident to everyone around them. They were each other's best friend, greatest supporter, and favorite companion. Whether enjoying a drive in one of Ed's classic cars, gathering with family, or simply spending time together, they found joy in life's everyday moments. Their devotion to one another never wavered, creating a bond that remained strong through every season of life.

While raising her family, Barbara worked in banking and retail, for the North Platte Airport Authority, AAA, and in several other positions throughout the years. Barbara was a member of The United Methodist Church in North Platte for over 50 years. She was also a member of the PEO Sisterhood, Hostesses, and Eagle’s Ladies Auxiliary.

Barbara treasured the friendships she made throughout her life. More than seven decades after graduating from McCook High School, she still looked forward to annual class reunions and cherished the lifelong bonds she shared with her classmates. One special group of friends, affectionately known as the "Floozies," shared decades of laughter, support, adventures, and unforgettable memories. To them, she was simply "Baabs."

Another cherished circle of friends was formed through her years as a member of the Hostesses. Through life's many joys and challenges, these friendships remained strong. In May 2025, they made the journey to Arizona to celebrate Barbara's 90th birthday together—a testament to the enduring friendships she cultivated throughout her life.

It is impossible to fully capture in a few paragraphs the impact Barb had on the lives of those around her. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother and great-grandmother, cherished friend, and the heart of countless family gatherings. Her home was a place where memories were made, traditions were born, and everyone was welcome.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Rudy and Bernadine Neumann; her brother, William "Bill" Neumann; her beloved husband, Ed Dowell; sons Thomas Lieberth, Larry Lieberth, and Garry Lieberth.

She is survived by her sons, Dan (Bonnie) Lieberth of Chandler, Arizona, Jerry (Sandy) Lieberth of Holdrege, Nebraska, and Steven Dowell of Missouri; her sister, Sandy Reisinger of Chandler, Arizona; her sister-in-law, Carol Neumann of Florida; 13 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and numerous extended family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

The memories Barbara leaves behind are countless—Christmas celebrations filled with joyful chaos, grandchildren running up and down the banisters, splashing in the big pink bathtub, and family gatherings overflowing with laughter. These moments will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

Though Barbara will be deeply missed here on earth, her family finds comfort in knowing she was welcomed at Heaven's gates by those who went before her, with open arms, warm embraces, and undoubtedly a few long-awaited hugs.

A life so beautifully lived leaves behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.

Services will be held Saturday, July 11th, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in North Platte. Burial will follow at Floral Lawns Memorial Gardens.