Barbara Jo Gist, 72, passed away on Monday, Oct. 27, 2025 after a two-year long battle with ovarian cancer. She was the beloved wife of Robert O. Gist; loving mother of John Gist and Sarah Gist; dearest sister of Mary Neer, Julie Vandergrift, Charlotte Downey, and Tina Rich. She was a cherished sister-in-law, aunt, cousin, and friend to many.
Barbara Jo was born at St. Mary’s Hospital in East St. Louis to the late John and Helen Rich. She grew up in O’Fallon, Illinois, with her four sisters.
Barbara Jo had a passion and appreciation for the arts. She especially loved making beaded jewelry and, through that hobby, she found a wonderful group of friends. Barbara Jo and her family found particular joy in helping others. She volunteered regularly throughout her life, but especially at the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, Missouri, where she volunteered at Garden Glow for the holidays, the beloved Japanese Festival in early fall, and at Henry Shaw’s historic home in the garden.
Barbara Jo worked for 23 years at the St. Louis College of Pharmacy, now the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy. Operating in various roles throughout her tenure, Barbaro Jo served as an executive assistant to deans and, later, worked in the HR department where she helped many students and staff. Her passion and knack for problem-solving made her indispensable to the college.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to support our hope of planting a memorial tree at the Missouri Botanical Garden. Here’s how to donate: At the link below, please select “Make a Tribute Gift” on the page. On the next page, select “In Honor of” or “In Memory Of.” In the designated tributee space, write “Barbara Gist.”
Link: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/donate/commemorative-giving
Service for Barbara Jo Gist:
A celebration of life is slated for Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025 at 3 p.m.
Location: Kutis South City Chapel, 2906 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63118
Visitation: Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Barbara had a beautiful soul. She lead our family since our parent’s passing. She will be missed greatly by many. There are not enough tears to shed for you. – Love, Jule & JR Vandergrift.
I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Barb at STLCOP and she was always so kind and lovely. She will be missed.
Barb was such a light to work with- she will be missed greatly. My deepest sympathy for the family.
I worked with Barb at STLCOP. She was so kind and helped me spot opportunities to grow as a professional. I am truly sorry for your loss. The world will miss her.
Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss. Barb worked in the Dean’s office for many years and in particular helped me acclimate to the role of Dean. She was always willing to assist our students and faculty, and in addition to her regular roles took on many special projects for the Deans- something she was very good at. She made me some of her beautiful jewelry too! She will be missed.
Bob, Sara and John – I so sorry for your loss Barb was a wonderful person.
Me too.