Barbara Sams Phillips

Born in Greensboro, North Carolina in 1940, Barbara was the daughter of Paul and Maude Katherine Sams. She married her pen pal and lifelong sweetheart, Grady L. Phillips, in 1959, and together they built a life rooted in love, faith, and devotion to family.

Barbara began her professional career in 1958 with Hagey, Middleton & Neal Advertising Agency in Greensboro, North Carolina. Her passion for finance soon led her to Associates Financial Services, where she dedicated 29 years of service before retiring in 1989 in Charleston, South Carolina. Throughout her career, Barbara was known for her leadership and commitment, serving as President of Credit Professionals International from 1981 to 1982. She also proudly served as historian for the 120th ARCOM unit at Fort Jackson. Barbara furthered her education at the University of South Carolina and Trident Technical College, and she served as a Notary Public for several decades.

In retirement, Barbara and Grady made their home in Lake Lure, North Carolina, where they enjoyed the beauty of the lake, the mountains and a life of service. Together, they volunteered faithfully with the Salvation Army, supporting those in need, and gave their time in local schools helping children learn to read.

Barbara had a deep love for poetry and found great joy in writing, leaving behind words that reflected her thoughtful and creative spirit.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 66 years, Grady L. Phillips.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Beth and Scott Hydrick; her son and daughter-in-law, Kevin and Patti Phillips; her four grandsons and their wives, Scott and Paige Hydrick, Phillip and Shanna Hydrick, Kyle Phillips, and Kory and Rebecca Phillips; her cherished great-grandchildren, Tripp, Nolan, Phillip, and Peyton Hydrick; and her sisters, Mary Jane Danford and Patricia Payne.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Oakleaf Village, Carroll Campbell Place, and MSA Hospice Care for their compassionate care. They are also deeply thankful for the love and support of their church family at Columbia Evangelical Church, and many friends whose prayers and kindness meant so much to Barbara and her family.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Dunbar Funeral Home, Dutch Fork Chapel. A reception will follow in the Dunbar Tribute Room.