Helen Kay Barnett (“Kay”), 75, passed away peacefully at her home in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on August 14, 2026, after navigating various health challenges.

Born in Tulsa on January 30, 1951, to Ed and Helen Bush, Kay was raised in Tulsa and spent most of her life in the area. Driven by a deep desire to care for others, she returned to college in her 40s to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing and Health Sciences from Texas Christian University. Kay became a brilliant, accomplished, and dedicated nurse, remembered fondly by colleagues, doctors, and patients alike for her skill, devoted care, and thoughtful medical advice.

Later in life, Kay moved to Pueblo, Colorado, where she enjoyed playing pickleball and staying active at the local YMCA. She returned to Tulsa in 2021 to be closer to her beloved family.

Kay lived life with joy, humor, and a spirited sense of adventure. Incredibly smart, fun-loving, and resilient, she taught those around her the value of perseverance, dedication, and leadership. Among her favorite pursuits were traveling—especially to Colorado and destinations across the country—baking, crafting, and playing pickleball. She loved country music, 60s and 70s easy listening rock, and above all, making memories with her family and friends (and frying up what many considered the best fried chicken around).

Kay was preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Helen Bush; her sister, Nancy Everett; her brother, Phil Everett; her stepdaughter, Debbie Barnett; and her mother-in-law, Stephanie Barnett.

She is survived by her loving husband, David Barnett of Tulsa; her children and their spouses: Jerry & Deidra (DeDe) Nickel, Cindy Nickel, Chalice Benat & Jackie, and David & Vicki Barnett; her grandchildren: Courney Lanier, Megan Nickel & Caleb Nickel, Derek & Larry Nickel, Ashley Watson, and Ashton & Devin Alkire; her 17 great-grandchildren: Aiden, Spencer, Kanaan, Emory, Lainey, Grayson, Carter, Aislee, Atlas, Siennah, Skylin, Kyler, Zayne, Willow, and Kash; her sister, Shawn Perkins, and husband David of Tulsa; and her niece, Shelby Perkins.

Burial will take place at Rose Lawn Cemetery in Pueblo, Colorado, followed by a small reception with snacks and drinks for family and friends to gather and celebrate her life.

While our hearts are broken by her passing, we are grateful for the years, memories, laughter, and love she gave us. Her legacy will continue in all of us who were fortunate enough to know and love her.