Wilma Jean Barnhorst, age 84, of Batesville, Indiana passed away Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at home surrounded by family. Wilma was born in Pennington Gap, Virginia on June 20, 1941, to David and Olga (Shupe) Mise.
Wilma married Clifford Barnhorst on June 20, 1959, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Oldenburg, Indiana. They raised 5 children.
A woman of deep faith, Wilma was a devoted Catholic and member of St. Louis Catholic Church in Batesville, Indiana. Her faith guided every aspect of her life and was reflected in the way she loved, served and cared for others.
Wilma dedicated herself to serving her community as a deputy and Chief of Police in Oldenburg, Indiana. She carried out her duties with courage, integrity, compassion and unwavering commitment.
Beyond her public service, Wilma found her greatest joy in her family. She was an exceptional cook whose kitchen was always filled with the warmth of home, the aroma of delicious meals and the laughter of loved ones gathered around her table. She expressed her love through hospitality, generosity and countless home-cooked meals that created cherished memories for generations.
Above all else, Wilma will be remembered for her extraordinary love for her family. Family was the center of her life, and she was the heart of theirs. Her love reflected the love of Christ—steadfast, unconditional and enduring. Whether offering encouragement, sharing wisdom or simply being present, Wilma made each member of her family feel deeply loved and valued.
She leaves behind her devoted husband of nearly 67 years, Clifford Cornelius Barnhorst, whose faithful partnership and love were a source of strength and joy throughout their marriage.
She is also survived by her children: Donald (Carolyn) Barnhorst of Dover, Indiana, William Barnhorst of Greenfield, Indiana, Randell (Tina) Barnhorst of Indianapolis, Indiana and Robin Eckstein of Batesville, Indiana, sisters Claire Jo McConnell and Nancy Guerra and brother Drew Mise.
Wilma’s legacy continues through her ten grandchildren: Zach (Stephany) Barnhorst, Michael (Lauren) Barnhorst, Krystal (Anthony) Rosado, Erin Barnhorst, Halie (Cody) Reinhart, Katie (Jake) Foster, Rachael (Samuel) Pyle, Rebecca Eckstein, Amanda Barnhorst and Josh Eckstein.
She was also blessed with ten great-grandchildren: Ethan Rosado, Amara Rosado, Alexander Rosado, Aiden Rosado, Aston Rosado, Noah Barnhorst, Lillian Barnhorst, Matilda Pyle, Lucy Foster, and a new baby expected in late 2026.
Though her family grieves her passing, they rejoice in the promise of eternal life and find comfort in knowing that Wilma is now in the presence of her Savior. Her faith, strength, kindness and unconditional love will continue to inspire all who knew her. Wilma will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her family, friends, church family and community.
Wilma was preceded in death by her parents, David and Olga (Shupe) Mise, her brother Henry Mise and by her beloved eldest son, Clifford Scott Barnhorst.
Visitation for Wilma Barnhorst will be held from 4 – 7 p.m. on Monday, May 25, 2026, at Weigel Funeral Home in Batesville, Indiana. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Louis Catholic Church in Batesville, Indiana, with Fr. Stan Pondo officiating. The burial will follow in the St. Louis Catholic Church cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Southeastern Indiana Hospice. If unable to attend the visitation, donations can be sent in c/o Weigel Funeral Home, PO Box 36, Batesville, Indiana 47006.
For online condolences, please go to www.weigelfh.com.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:21
May her memory be eternal, and may she rest in the peace of Christ.