Barbara Ann Griffith

Barbara Ann Griffith, age 73, of Nashville, TN, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on October 11, 1951, in Cumberland County/Crossville, TN, to Mildred and William Brewer. Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend who touched the lives of everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her husband of 31 years, Mark Griffith; daughter, Jessica Shinn (George) of Monteagle, TN; stepdaughters, Marcie Nitsch (Nick) of Goodlettsville, TN, and Meagan Griffith of Hendersonville, TN; sisters, Polly Brewer of Franklin, TN and Sylvia Brewer of Portland, TN; brothers, Oliver Brewer (Joy) of Nashville, TN, and Michael Brewer (Alma) of Austin, TX; grandchildren, Katherine and William Shinn, Hudson and Maddox Nitsch; as well as many nieces, nephews, and other cherished family members.

Barbara was preceded in death by her father, William Brewer; her mother, Mildred Brewer; and her brother, Martin Brewer.

Barbara attended Van Buren County High School and then Draughon’s Business College in Nashville. Her education fostered a knack for business administration that served her not only in her career but was also a benefit to the various community organizations she devoted herself to over the years. She was a member of the Van Buren County fair board and worked tirelessly to make community events a success through fundraising, planning, and sheer elbow grease.

Barbara started her career working in the office of Spinlon Inc. in Spencer, TN before taking a job with the Senior Companion Program, working to coordinate services for older adults in the Van Buren County area. Her background in business administration and heart for service led her to accept a position with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, where she eventually became the executive director of the Nashville office. From there, she moved on to the American Lung Association. She eventually made her way to a position with the State of Tennessee that would span 17 years. She rapidly moved up the ranks to become an administrative assistant in the office of the Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, a job she adored.

Barbara brought immeasurable joy and light into the lives of those who knew her. Her willingness to listen and give constructive, wise advice was a balm to many. Her calm reasoning skills were legend…if there was a problem, she knew how to solve it. She knew how to have fun and loved get togethers; her consummate hosting skills endeared her to everyone who tasted her food or was greeted by her warm smile and loving embrace.

Barbara loved to travel with family and friends, and she especially loved spending time at the beach. You could often find her reading a mystery novel or working on a puzzle. She was a fabulous cook who liked to try new things but could always be counted on to fix timeless recipes passed down from her mother.

Barbara’s involvement in the community and her ability to make others feel valued and appreciated is a testament to the kindness and generosity she radiated. She was truly loved by everyone who knew her and will be deeply missed by all.

A visitation will be held on Monday, March 17, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Woodlawn Roesch Patton Funeral Home, located at 660 Thompson Lane in Nashville, TN. A celebration of life will follow at 4:00 PM.

The celebration of life for Barbara will also be streamed on Woodlawn Roesch Patton Funeral Home Facebook page.