Barbara Jane Soth, 86, of Wichita, Kan., died Feb. 26, 2026, at Cedarhurst Senior Living in Wichita. She was born Nov. 9, 1939, in Newton, Kan., the daughter of Elmer D. and Gladys Unger Balzer. She graduated from Newton High School in 1957. On March 11, 1958, she married James L. Soth at the rectory of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Newton.

Barbara began her career at Railroad Savings and Loan in Newton, where she worked for 20 years. She later served another 20 years with the City of Newton Water Department, retiring as a supervisor. She also worked part-time at Maxwell Flowers, where she discovered and nurtured her lifelong love of floral arranging.

She was a devoted member of Bethel College Mennonite Church for 70 years. She taught Sunday school and vacation Bible school and mentored many high school students. She attended St. Mary’s Catholic Church and actively participated in many church activities alongside Jim.

Barbara and Jim were founding members of The Compassionate Friends of Harvey County. She enjoyed baseball, basketball, auto racing, boating and fishing. She shared her love of cooking and baking with son Tim and grandson Brycen. For 20 years, she and Jim were part of the Pig Roast Group, hosting annual gatherings that brought friends together for evenings of laughter and fellowship. She found her greatest joy in spending time with her family, especially her great-nieces and great-nephews.

Survivors include her son, Terrance L. Soth (Patricia) of Wichita, four grandchildren and her brother, Francis Balzer. She was preceded in death by her husband, son Timothy and sister-in-law Jacqueline Balzer.

The family requests memorials to Good Shepherd Hospice, The Compassionate Friends of Harvey County or Bethel College Mennonite Church.