Barbara Skrabanek

Barbara Jean Skrabanek, 77, of Bryan, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025, at her home with her family by her side.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Strickland Funeral Home in Caldwell, with Pastor David Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at New Tabor Cemetery.

Barbara was born on February 15, 1948, in Caldwell, TX, to Herbert Brinkman and Gladys (Nelson) Brinkman. As the second oldest of five children, she spent her childhood working hard picking cotton and helping support her family.

On June 22, 1968, she married the love of her life, Milton Julius Skrabanek, with whom she shared 57 devoted years of marriage. Together, they raised a family rooted in love and faith.

Barbara began her career in education in 1977 at Snook ISD. She later served in Bryan ISD and ultimately retired after 38 years from Caldwell ISD, where she worked as a dedicated middle school librarian. She was a proud member of SPJST #17 since 1973 and a lifelong member of New Tabor Brethren Church, attending faithfully with her husband Milton.

Barbara had many passions. She loved reading, tending to her flower beds, decorating her home, and especially spending time with her family—most of all her grandchildren. She was known for her creativity and delighted in crafting gifts for loved ones during the holidays.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Gladys Brinkman, and three brothers: Franklin, Herbert, and James Brinkman.

She is survived by her loving husband, Milton Skrabanek of Bryan; her son and daughter-in-law, Bruce and Janel Skrabanek of College Station; two grandchildren, Mark Skrabanek and Emily Skrabanek; brothers Kenneth Brinkman of Bryan and David Brinkman of Granbury; and sister, Debbie (Brinkman) Schulz and husband John Wayne of Hearne.

Pallbearers will be Steven Skrabanek, Mark Skrabanek, Craig Fricke, Michael Brinkman, Tommy Brinkman, and J.W. Schulz.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: New Tabor Brethren Church, P.O. Box 262 Caldwell, TX 77836