Barbara W. Jones

With broken hearts we announce the passing of our beloved Barbara “Bobbie” Whitaker Jones, lovingly known as Nanny to her family. She peacefully went home to be with the Lord on July 10, 2026, at the age of 89.

Born November 26, 1936, to Roy Whitaker and Blanche Whitaker Howell, Bobbie grew up in Stedman, NC, alongside her siblings Horace, Herbert, Melrose, Betsy and Joyce. She married the love of her life, Billy L. Jones, and together they built a beautiful life centered around love, family, and making memories. Together they raised three children: Karen Johnson (husband Richard); James Jones and Greg Jones, who preceded her in death along with her beloved husband, Billy.

Nothing brought Nanny more joy than her family. She leaves behind the grandchildren she loved so dearly: Kristen Wilkerson (husband Kenneth); Caleb Jones (wife Madeline); Amanda Calhoun (husband Jeremy); and Timmothy Johnson (wife Alisha). Nanny was also blessed with eleven great-grandchildren: Chase, Rhys, Alex, “Chip”, Kenneth, “Will”, Jett, Cruz, J.J., Jamison, Julian, Kensley, and Emilee. Being “Nanny” was one of the greatest blessings of her life, and nothing made her happier than watching her family grow.

Bobbie worked for many years at Fort Bragg, first in the school library and later at the golf course. For a season, she stepped away from her career to help raise her granddaughter, Kristen, a role she treasured and one that reflected her selfless love for her family.

She loved staying busy and making the most of life. Nanny was an avid golfer and was especially proud of making a hole-in-one, an accomplishment she always enjoyed talking about. She also loved sewing, gardening, and spending time outdoors. Late in life, she found another home at Briarcliffe RV Resort, where she made lifelong friends and embraced the camping and beach lifestyle she loved so much.

To her family, she wasn’t remembered for what she owned or the titles she held. She will be remembered for the way she loved. Nanny was always there when she was needed, always willing to help, always happiest when surrounded by the people she loved. She had a quiet strength, a generous heart, and a way of making everyone feel welcome.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to her dear friend, Pam Allen, whose friendship, love, and care meant so much to Nanny and to all of us. We will always be grateful for the kindness she showed.

While our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing she has been reunited with the love of her life, Billy, and her son, Greg. We can only imagine the joy of that reunion.

Nanny leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and family that will continue through every generation that follows. We will miss her every day, but we will carry her love, her laughter, and the memories she gave us for the rest of our lives.

In accordance with Bobbie’s wishes, a private family service will be held to celebrate her life.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”- Matthew 25:23