Barbara Barnett Thomas

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 58 years, Rev. Fate L. Thomas, Sr.; her mother, Nola Bell Barnett; and her brother, Kenneth Barnett.

Barbara was a devoted wife and the most loving mother and grandmother. Her children and grandchildren were a source of great joy and pride. She is survived by sons Fate Lynn (Susan) Thomas, Jr. and Marc (Angie) Thomas, daughter Rachel Ann Thomas, and grandchildren Matthew Thomas, Anna (Korey) Chambers, and Brooks Thomas.

Born on June 6, 1936, Barbara grew up in Sweetwater, TN. After graduating from Sweetwater High School, Barbara met and married her dear husband, Fate, in 1956. She studied along with Fate at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary as he prepared for the ministry. Barbara worked alongside Fate as he pastored many churches through the years, including Ridgeview Baptist Church, Chattanooga, TN, where they served for 14 years. She was a blessing to so many as a pastor’s wife as she ministered with creativity and great compassion for others. Barbara graciously shared her time and talents as she served as church soloist, Sunday school teacher, and leader of missions groups for women and girls. She also touched many lives as she worked as office manager for the late Dr. Joe Anne Quillian for over 25 years.

Music was Barbara’s passion, especially music of the church. She brought great joy to family and friends when she played and sang at the piano. She also enjoyed many crafts and was a masterful knitter. She leaves behind many beautiful needlework treasures for family and friends to cherish.

Barbara was a member of First Baptist Church of Chattanooga where she was a member of the Sanctuary Choir. She was a charter member of the Heartfriends Sunday School class and served as teacher for many years. The women of the Heartfriends Class shared a very close bond. The family would like to thank them for their great love and support of Barbara during her illness.

It was Barbara’s desire to thank all her “Angels on Earth” who ministered to her. The family joins her in expressing heartfelt gratitude to the many people who loved and cared for Barbara during her illness, including Lebron and Debbie Sterchi, her cherished friends of the WOW group, Sue Moore, Betty Givens, Bob Martin, Amber Willis of Arden Senior Care, Marianne Felins of Hospice of Chattanooga, and many others too numerous to name.

There will be a private service for the family, with Dr. Thomas Quisenberry officiating. The burial will be in Westview Cemetery, Sweetwater. A memorial service to honor Barbara’s life will be planned at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Chattanooga, 401 Gateway Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37402, fbcchattanooga.org and Hospice of Chattanooga, 4411 Oakwood Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37416, hospiceofchattanooga.org.

Arrangements are by the Chattanooga Funeral Home Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421. Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com