Barbara O'Leary Carlton

Barbara was born on August 11, 1942. She grew up in Nashville, TN, and graduated from St. Bernard Academy, where she was a cheerleader for Father Ryan. She later attended Peabody College at Vanderbilt, where she graduated with a Degree in Education.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Ruth O'Leary, and is survived by her children, Katie (Frank) Long, Thomas (Ellen) Carlton III, and Bridget (Brian) Carter, and her eight grandchildren, Caroline (Benjamin) Thomas, Christina (Matthew) Radoslovich, Ashley Ruth Long, Gracyn Carlton, Reilyn Carlton, Brenyn Carlton, Audrey Kinard, and Parker Kinard.

She was an active member in her Nashville community, serving others through her different employments, the most noteworthy being the manager of Brooks Brothers in Green Hills for over 25 years. She then continued her retail career at the French Shoppe. In all areas of her life and career, Barbara was an inspiration to many through her leadership and unwavering kindness. Barbara was a devout Catholic and member of Saint Henry Catholic Church, where she served on the wedding guild, a member of St. Vincent de Paul Society, and attended daily mass often. She had a special devotion to the Blessed Mother Mary, praying the Rosary daily.

Barbara was committed to gathering her family often and was instrumental in her children's and grandchildren's lives. She never missed an event, ranging from soccer games, school plays, or moving her grandchildren into their college dorms. She loved dancing, singing, cooking, shopping, and hosting events to bring loved ones together. She was always making an effort to improve the lives of those around her and giving herself completely to her friends and family.

She was a loving mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, godmother, cousin, and friend to all who knew her. She was incredibly proud of all her children and grandchildren. We will dearly miss her loving attitude, radiant smile, and the way she would light up every room she entered. She truly was an example of loving others wholeheartedly and keeping Christ at the center.

Visitation with the family will be held at St. Henry Catholic Church on Saturday, December 20th, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass of the Resurrection at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Henry School Tuition Assistance Fund, 6401 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205.