Barbara Atkins Royster

Barbara graduated from Albemarle High School in 1962 and from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1966 with a degree in arts. She married the love of her life, Ralph Royster, in 1968, and they shared nearly 58 years together.

She worked as an interior decorator and enjoyed art in her free time, always having a gift for seeing and creating beauty. She had a lifelong love of dogs and showed and bred Salukis, Shelties and Border Terriers. In addition, her beloved Goldendoodle Sparky is a survivor, and a reminder of the love she shared with animals throughout her entire life. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who put others before herself and was always ready to help anyone who needed her. If you called, she answered. If you needed help, she came. Sitting still simply was not who she was.

Barbara was the proud mother of Derek Royster and his wife Leanne, and their children Derek Jr., Jake, and Kyle; Justin Royster and his wife Shannon, and their children Nicholas, Emily and Caitlyn; and Megan (Royster) Nichols and her husband Clay, and their children Fisher and Bennett. She was the biggest fan her grandchildren could ever have, and whether it was a ballgame, a school event, or a special moment, she was there cheering them on with all her heart.

She was the daughter of the late William Schaeffer and Bessie Lee Atkins and was preceded in death by her brother, Benjamin Atkins. She is survived by her sisters, JoAnna Griggs, Patricia McDevitt, and Billie Barbee.

Alzheimer’s slowly took so much from Barbara over the years, but it never took away her kindness. Even near the end, she continued to compliment everyone she met, telling them how sweet they were, how beautiful they looked, and thanking them for helping her. She was always beautiful herself, with impeccable taste in clothes and jewelry, yet she never sought attention. She carried herself with quiet grace and humility, never boisterous or pretentious despite her own beauty.

To so many people she was Bobbie or Babs, but to her family she was Mom—her safe place, greatest supporter, and best friend. There will never be another like her. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is finally at peace, free from the disease that stole so much from her but could never steal the love she had for them. They will carry her with them every day and do their best to honor her legacy of unconditional love, generosity, kindness, and grace.

The family would like to extend their deepest and most heartfelt thanks to all of Barbara’s doctors, nurses, and caregivers, especially Che’rie Tyson and Grace Layden. Their compassion, dedication, and loving care meant so much to Barbara and to all who loved her. Their help was truly invaluable. We cannot thank them enough for the comfort, support, and kindness they gave throughout her journey.

A private memorial will be planned by the family at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, private prayers for the family and a donation to the Alzheimer’s Society would be appreciated.