Antoinette Rose Novak

Antoinette Rose Novak, of Palestine, Texas, passed away peacefully on the 21st day of February 2026, at the age of 90. She was born on the 26th day of January 1936, in Binghamton, New York to Angelo Barnaba and Marie Scott Barnaba.

Mrs. Novak's early years on the farm instilled in her the values of hard work and perseverance. These traits were evident throughout her diverse career, which spanned the fields of real estate and nursing.

Mrs. Novak’s love for her family was the cornerstone of her life. She was the embodiment of kindness, her loving nature, a comforting presence to all who knew her. Her friendly demeanor ensured that she never met a stranger, making friends everywhere she went, with a particular fondness for the warm community at her favorite Whataburger.

A woman of many talents and interests, Mrs. Novak carried with her the joyful memories of being on stage with her family during her childhood. She was known for her homemade spaghetti and meatballs, a dish that brought together family and friends.

Gardening was another of Mrs. Novak's passions. Her garden was a testament to her patience and care, filled with vibrant flowers and meticulously tended plants. Yardwork was not a chore for her but a pleasure, and her home was always surrounded by beauty as a result.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband John Novak; parents, Angelo and Marie Barnaba; sisters, Jean Deleo, Connie Rogers, Grace Robson; and brothers, Tony, Sam, Joe, and Gerald Barnaba.

Left to cherish her memories are her loving daughters, Michelle Hoffman and husband David, Toni Lewis; son, Michael Gifford; grandchildren, Donnie, Antoinette, David, Kyle, Aaron and several great grandchildren.

Cremation services for Antoinette Rose Novak are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit her online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with her family.

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