Barbara Elaine Alalaem

Barbara Elaine Alalaem, age 71, was born August 12, 1955, at Parks Air Force Base in Pleasanton, California, to Charles W. and Joan Wells. She passed away Friday, October 9, 2026, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Barbara grew up in a military family, and as the daughter of a serviceman, she experienced a childhood unlike many others. Her family's military assignments took them to different places around the world, giving her the opportunity to experience different cultures, meet new people, and attend schools in many different locations. These experiences helped shape Barbara into the person she would become.

Barbara graduated from high school and continued her education, completing much of the coursework toward a bachelor's degree before deciding to pursue a different direction in life. She spent part of her working career as a police officer, serving and helping others. Later, she returned to learning herself, studying how to develop and conduct online tutoring courses so she could continue helping others through education.

Barbara was a woman who valued family, learning, and the simple pleasures of life. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her much happiness. Her great-granddaughter Clara held a particularly special place in her heart, and the time they spent together meant a great deal to Barbara.

Throughout her life, Barbara experienced many changes, from growing up and traveling around the world to the different paths she followed in her working career. Through it all, her family remained an important part of her life, and the memories they shared will continue to be treasured by those who loved her.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Charles W. and Joan Wells; her sister, Susan Beers; and her son, Kenneth Petty.

She is survived by her son, Will Petty of England; her daughters, Elizabeth Petty of Carnegie, Oklahoma, and Crystal Petty of Texas; her sisters, Laura Wojciechowicz and her husband, David, of New Jersey, and Aileen Morgan and her husband, Glenn, of Pennsylvania; her stepsister, Neva Hoffmaier and her husband, James, of New York; her brother, Charlie Wells and his wife, Geraldine, of New Jersey; and her stepbrother, Thomas and his wife, Barri, of Pennsylvania.

She is also survived by her grandchildren, McKala Gregory and her companion, Toby Lee, of Clinton; Demetris Petty and his companion, Regina Martinez, of Clinton; Bo Burleson of Clinton; Natan Petty; and Shane Mathison; her two great-grandchildren, Clara Gregory and Malachi Keys; along with numerous other relatives and friends.

Barbara will be remembered for her love of family, her willingness to learn new things, and the special memories she leaves behind with those who knew and loved her.

In accordance with Barbara's wishes, she will be cremated. Arrangements are under the direction of the Lee Hometown Funeral Home.