Barbara (Rand) Aniol

Barbara (Rand) Aniol

1929-2021

Barbara Rand Aniol went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on November 8, 2021, surrounded by her loving family in Houston, Texas. Barbara was born on October 30, 1929, in Topeka, Kansas, to Edith and Ralph Rand. She grew up in Lawrence, Kansas, and graduated from the University of Kansas with a Bachelor of Science in Education. Then, she furthered her education at Southern Methodist University Perkins School of Theology and received her Master's in Christian Education. Upon graduation, she became the Director of Christian Education at The First United Methodist Church of San Angelo, Texas.

In 1955, Barbara married Ralph J. Aniol and began a family in San Antonio, Texas; shortly thereafter they moved to Houston, Texas. While Barbara was a full-time mother of their three children and was devoted to her family, she was also actively involved in the community. Barbara served her community by supporting and volunteering at Memorial Drive United Methodist Church, The House of Amos and PEO, Chapter CO where she was awarded 60 years of membership. In later years, she participated in Christian Life Studies at St. Martin's Episcopal Church.

One of Barbara's many talents included cooking and baking. Her homemade Italian cream cake was everyone's absolute favorite! She enjoyed sewing, knitting, needlepointing, and playing the piano. Most importantly, Barbara will be best remembered by her optimistic attitude throughout life. She never feared adversity and found her purpose in serving others. Whenever anyone needed encouragement, Barbara showed up with a meal. She often drove friends and neighbors to doctor appointments and cared for them. She received this same blessing of "doing for others" in her last season of life; especially from her friends at the Village of Tanglewood. With grateful hearts, we are especially thankful for the kindness and devoted care Barbara received from Yvonne Gomez, Flo Omaruyi, LaVernon Thomas, Natalie Tillett and others.

She is welcomed into eternal glory by her parents Edith and Ralph Rand and dearest friends Nell and Muriel. She is survived by her three children: Mary Aniol Kerr and husband Scott; John Aniol and wife Robyn; Martha Aniol Melody and husband Tom. Barbara, "Mema", was adored by eight grandchildren: Kendall Kerr, Thomas Aniol, Ben Aniol, William Aniol, Matt Melody, Christine Melody, James Melody and wife, Olivia, and John Melody and wife, Emma.

A memorial service celebrating Barbara's life will be held on November 15 at 11:30 AM at Memorial Drive United Methodist Church, 12955 Memorial Dr. Following the service, a reception will be held in the church Narthex. Our family is grateful for Barbara's joyful spirit and caring passion for others in need. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to houseofamos.org/donate.