Barbara Jean Smith

Barbara Jean Smith, 87, of Martinsville, passed away peacefully on February 4th. She was the daughter of the late Wray Ovid Smith and the late Ethel Adams Smith. She was born on March 26, 1938, in Wilkes County, NC.

Barbara worked in bookkeeping at First National Bank of Bassett, later Dominion Bank. Later, she was employed by Walmart.

Barbara loved to travel and took many trips with some of her close friends, making wonderful memories.

She was an animal lover who owned several dogs throughout her life. She enjoyed recounting humorous stories about her precious dogs, who were like children to her.

Barbara had many wonderful qualities. She was loving, kind, faithful, generous, and thoughtful. Because of these qualities, she developed many lasting friendships with her co-workers, neighbors, and her church family.

She was an avid reader, enjoyed sharing her books with others, and considered a visit to the public library an adventure. She shared humorous stories she had read, and cute jokes brought her delight.

Starling Avenue Baptist Church was an especially important and special part of her life. At just 10 years old, she was baptized in March 1938. She was involved in every aspect of the church as long as she was able.

Even as age and infirmities altered her life, Barbara kept her cheerfulness and her concern for others as well as interest in the church, its members and activities.

Barbara was so appreciative of all her friends, church family, and neighbors. Visitors were always told how much they meant to her. One statement that she repeated often was, “God has been so good to me!”

Barbara wanted her friends and neighbors to know how grateful she was for all the memories that showed their love and concern for her.

Barbara will be missed by all who knew her, but she will be well remembered with love and fond memories.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Starling Avenue Baptist Church, 932 Starling Avenue, Martinsville, VA 24112.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, March 8, 2026, at 2:00 P.M., at Starling Avenue Baptist Church, 932 Starling Avenue, Martinsville, VA 24112.