Barbara Jo Polson was born February 5, 1950 in Ottumwa, Iowa the daughter of Thomas Melvin and Wilma Mae (Cox) Richards.

She was raised in Ottumwa and on June 25, 1966 Barbara was united in marriage to Cleo Dale Polson. The couple lived in several communities before settling in Knoxville. Barbara had worked for Pella Corp, Bingley-Dykstra Sale Barn and Alco before retiring from Wal-Mart. She also earned a degree in computer science from Indian Hills Community College.

In her spare time, Barbara enjoyed gardening, jigsaw puzzles and sudoku. Her greatest joy was spending time with family and she helped raise her grand and great-grandchildren.

Barbara passed away Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at the Knoxville Hospital & Clinics at the age of 75 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings: Larry, Randy, Dianna, Jimmy, Chris, and Tom, Jr. in infancy; granddaughter, Cassie Jo, grandson, Darrin and her life-long best friend, Deb Hines. May they rest in peace.

Those left to cherish Barbara’s memory include her children: Terri Polson, Quintin Polson, Calvin Polson and Dianna Polson; 11 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild; siblings: Ruth Ann Fisher, Benny Richards, Raymond Richards, Tomiesue Richards, Thom Richards, Jerry Richards, Timothy Richards, Joe Richards, Rick Richards and many other family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Marion County Humane Society or the American Cancer Society.