Barbara Jean Natera

In Loving Memory of Barbara Jean Natera

September 30, 1949 – November 10, 2025

Barbara Jean Natera, 76, of Ottumwa, Iowa, was born on September 30, 1949, in Trenton, New Jersey, to George and Rose Lukais. She attended parochial schools and, after graduating from high school, enrolled in a program to become an X-ray technician. It was during this time that she met her future husband, Ray, who was serving in the Army as a medical corpsman.

Barbara eventually left X-ray school and moved to California to begin her life with Ray. They were married and spent the next 15 wonderful years there. Early in their marriage, they were introduced to the Bible’s message of truth, which they both wholeheartedly embraced. Barbara was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on May 15, 1971. Together, they were blessed with four children, whom Barbara lovingly raised as a stay-at-home mom.

In the spring of 1984, Ray and Barbara moved their family to Iowa for better employment opportunities and to support the preaching work. Although the move brought challenges, it proved to be a beneficial and faith-strengthening decision for the family.

Barbara later developed her natural talent for sewing into a professional career. She worked as a seamstress for Herberger’s Department Store, Executive Cleaners, and The Bridal Cottage, while also completing countless projects for friends and family. Generous with her time and skill, she lovingly helped many with wedding dresses and other treasured garments.

In addition to her sewing, she was an avid reader who especially enjoyed a good mystery or a Jane Austen novel. She was also known for being a wonderful cook. Her pumpkin pies were especially noteworthy! She was very hospitable, always happy to welcome unexpected guests and often prepared extra food “just in case.”

Barbara is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Ray Natera; her children, Gina (Paul) Muller, Aaron (Deborah) Natera, and Micah Natera; her sister, Kathy (Fran) Hoyer; her daughter-in-law, Tricia Natera; and four cherished grandchildren, Josiah, Nova, Javan, and Zhanna. She was preceded in death by their son, Jonathan Natera and her parents.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 624 W. Rochester Ave., Ottumwa IA, 52501 followed by a reception at the Horase Mann Elementary School, 1523 N. Court St., Ottumwa IA 52501

Flowers can be delivered to the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses at 624 W. Rochester Ave., Ottumwa, IA 52501