Neennah Marie German

Neennah Marie (Barnhart) German, age 100, passed away peacefully in the presence of her family on Sunday, May 3, 2026, in Austin, Texas. She was born on December 17, 1925, in Electra, Texas, to William “Jack” Barnhart and Audrey (Fenton) Barnhart.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Thornton Methodist Church in Thornton, Texas, with John Zamudio officiating.

After spending her early childhood in Electra, Neennah’s family returned to their land in Thornton, where she was raised and developed a deep appreciation for family and community while assisting with daily farm life. The family later relocated to Houston, Texas, where she graduated from San Jacinto High School.

Neennah was employed as a bookkeeper for many years, demonstrating dedication and professionalism throughout her career. On February 14, 1962, she was united in marriage to James “Steve” German in Houston, Texas. Their marriage endured for 48 years until his passing in 2010. In 1963, they welcomed their son, Carl “Duane” German. The family resided in Houston until 1986, when Neennah and Steve retired and returned to Thornton, the community she cherished most.

Throughout her life, Neennah remained actively engaged in civic and community organizations. She was a devoted member of the Thornton Chamber of Commerce for over two decades and contributed her time to the Kosse Lions Club, Thornton Senior Citizens, and Thornton Methodist Church. She also generously supported the Thornton 4-H Club, where she assisted with youth programs, including etiquette instruction, cooking, and tutoring.

Neennah found her greatest joy in her family, particularly in her grandchildren, Jack and Anya. Following her move to Austin, she took great pleasure in attending Anya’s softball games and looked forward to the margarita deliveries from Jack.

Jack shares, “I will miss our monthly margaritas. I love you and will miss you dearly.”

Anya, share, “My grandmother was a woman of class and character who loved hard for the people in her life. As her granddaughter I have such fond memories of baking with her in the kitchen, having her sitting on the porch while I climbed the trees in the backyard, and watching westerns while she sat in her rocking chair with me at her feet. My remembrance of her goes far beyond these few moments, and I’ll forever hold my grandmother near to my heart.”

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James “Steve” German; and numerous beloved family members. She is survived by her son, Carl “Duane” German and his spouse, Sasha; her grandchildren, Jack and Anya; and extended family members residing in the Thornton and Houston areas.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made in Neennah’s honor to Thornton Methodist Church at PO Box 382 Thornton, TX 76687