Barbara Gray Meadows Smith

Barbara G. Smith, 88, of Columbus, Georgia, passed away peacefully in her home on August 28, 2024. Born on October 7, 1935, in Wilmington, North Carolina, Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose warm spirit touched the lives of everyone she met. The family will receive friends on Wednesday September 4, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Vance Brooks Funeral Home in Columbus. Funeral Services will take place on Thursday September 5, 2024 at 11:00 AM at the same location, with interment at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery at 1:30 PM.

Barbara dedicated a significant part of her life to her career as a Bank Teller for Wachovia Bank until she stepped into her well-deserved retirement. In addition to her work at the bank, Barbara was a dedicated Pastor’s wife, gracefully leading their congregation alongside her husband. Beyond her professional contributions, Barbara will be remembered for the loving atmosphere she created at home, particularly through her proudest accomplishment—her family. She cherished the moments spent together with loved ones, hosting family gatherings and preparing delicious meals that brought everyone together.

In her free time, Barbara found joy in simple pleasures. She enjoyed reading, challenging her mind with crossword puzzles, and watching classic Westerns and Hallmark movies. She loved to attend church services and was a faithful member of Fellowship Assembly of God for many years.

Barbara's legacy lives on through her loving family. She is survived by her daughters, Sarah Thibodeau and her husband Richard of Columbus, Georgia, and Nancy Kuc and her husband Jim of Thorndike, Massachusetts; sons, Clarence E. Smith Jr. and his wife Debbie of Westbrookfield, Massachusetts, Roger Smith and his wife Dona of Columbus, Georgia, and David Smith and his wife Michelle of Ludlow, Massachusetts; The joy she brought into their lives is further reflected in her grandchildren—Carrie Johnson, Richard Kuc, Austin Michaud, Jason Michaud, Timothy Smith, Chadd Smith, and Nehemiah Smith—as well as her great-grandchildren: Caitlyn Bussey, Faith Kuc, Conner Michaud, Colton Michaud, Camden Michaud, Rayden Michaud, Zita Smith, and Luna Smith. Each one carries a piece of her love within them.

Barbara is reunited in Heaven with her husband, Reverend Clarence Edward "Smitty" Smith, their infant son, granddaughter Stacey Michaud, and her parents, Charles Meadows and Ivy Smith Meadows, who preceded her in passing.

 Her profound impact on the hearts of those who knew her will forever resonate in their lives as they remember her unwavering support, nurturing soul, and the joy she imparted to every gathering. As friends and family gather to celebrate a remarkable life well-lived, they will remember Barbara not just for her roles as a mother, grandmother, and friend but for the warmth she offered without hesitation. Barbara’s legacy will continue to inspire love and togetherness, values she cherished so deeply.