Barbara Cartledge Cargill

Barbara Cartledge Cargill was born October 14, 1929, in Steubenville, Ohio and passed away on June 7, 2026, at the age of 96 with her loving family by her side. The daughter of Thomas and Kathryn Cartledge, Barbara lived a meaningful life shaped by creativity, devotion, and a steady, grounded character that guided her through every chapter. She will be remembered for her deep love of family, her strength and integrity, her admirable work ethic, and her unwavering belief in doing what was right, no matter how difficult.

After graduating from Steubenville High School, Barbara pursued her passion for art and design at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. While attending school, she met the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Cargill. They shared an extraordinary 74 years of marriage.

Upon graduation, Barbara moved to Baltimore to live with her favorite aunt and uncle and began her career as a fashion design artist for The Baltimore Sun. After marriage, the couple moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where Bob began his commercial art career with the advertising agency N.W. Ayer. During these years, Barbara devoted herself to her family and raising their children.

When Bob’s career brought the family to Atlanta, Georgia, Barbara embraced new interests. She had a lifelong love of fitness and nutrition, which led her to become an exercise instructor, teaching classes well into her 60s. Her appreciation for antiques and art inspired her to begin an antique business, even traveling to Michigan to work alongside her sister, Phyllis. Together, the two proudly called themselves “The Antique Sisters”.

Barbara also played an essential role in Bob’s professional life. She served as office manager for his successful advertising agency, Cargill & Associates, Inc., handling the financial operations with precision and dedication. Together, she and Bob were active and generous supporters of the Atlanta art community, including the Atlanta College of Art, the Atlanta Arts Alliance, and the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). After Bob’s retirement, Barbara continued to support his work as a watercolorist, managing his exhibitions and helping shape his post-career artistic legacy. The two also enjoyed traveling during their retirement, scouting locations and subjects for Bob to paint while sharing countless adventures along the way.

In Bob’s final years, Barbara was his devoted caregiver, offering him the same steadfast love and commitment that had defined their life together.

Above all, Barbara’s greatest pride was her family. She is survived by her children, Colleen Cargill Papciak (Michael) and Todd Cargill (Ellen); her grandchildren, Spencer (Emily), Kevin (Jamie), and Emily (Clinton); and her great-grandchildren, Noah, Mason, and Mackenzie. She is also survived by her sister, Phyllis Blight, and her brother, Kirk Cartledge.

A family graveside service will be held at Georgia National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Barbara’s memory through contributions to the Robert and Barbara Cargill Memorial Scholarship at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Gifts may be made at: https://www.scad.edu/about/giving/donate?d=ROBCARMEMS