In loving memory of Barbara Ann McAlister, who has gone to walk with Jesus in her home on January 19, 2024, surrounded by family. She was born in Natchitoches, Louisiana, on February 8, 1943, married the love of her life; and after 24 years as an Air Force wife Thomas and Barbara retired and resided in Bossier City, Louisiana for 41 years. She was the daughter of Lewis and Margaret Keeth. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Thomas Dean McAlister, her sister Marie Nelson, her sister- in-law Janet Goodman, her children Stephanie Whitten Alexander, and husband Travis; Steven McAlister, and wife Dana; Sherryl Woods, and husband William; grandchildren James Whitten, and wife Jennifer; Megan House, and husband Wayne; Richard Garrett III, Matthew McAlister, and wife Abigail; Ashlie Hoylman, and husband Michael; Joseph Whitten, and wife Ashley; Thomas Garrett, Mark McAlister, James Benjamin, Roger Benjamin, Margaret McAlister, Atticus Davis, and great grandchildren Jenah Latch, Aerika House, Travis Hoylman, Carson Hoylman, Mila McAlister, and Jacob Whitten, and numerous nieces and nephews and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, mother-in-law Nancy Caldwell, father-in-law Thomas J McAlister, brother Lester Keeth, and wife Darlene; brother-in-law Wayne Nelson, sisters-in-law Virginia McAlister and Jeanette Carney, and son-in-law Stephen Whitten.
A woman whose life was a testament to love and family; she found joy in cultivating her vibrant garden, creating a haven of blossoms that mirrored the warmth she shared with everyone around her. Her home-cooked meals were a source of comfort and a gathering point for generations. “Granny” was known by many for her abundant kindness, open door, and her home was always filled with laughter and joy.
Her devotion to family was unwavering, and her grandchildren held a special place in her heart. Through her faith, she imparted values of love, compassion, and kindness, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to have been a part of her life. As a devout Catholic, she was a parishioner of Christ the King Church for 41 years, as well as a devotee of the Children of Light, and Magnificat prayer groups.
As we bid farewell to this cherished soul, let us remember the love she sowed, the meals she shared, and the gardens she nurtured—a beautiful legacy that will continue to blossom in the hearts of all who were touched by her presence.
Honoring their grandmother as pallbearers will be grandchildren James Whitten, Richard Garrett III, Matthew McAlister, Joseph Whitten, Thomas Garrett, Mark McAlister, James Benjamin, Roger Benjamin, and Margaret McAlister.
Visitation will be held at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport, Louisiana 71108 on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 from 5-7 pm, followed by the rosary at 7:00 pm.
A Mass of Christian Burial will held on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 10 am, at Christ the King Catholic Church in Bossier City, Louisiana.
Burial and interment will follow the funeral and mass at Centuries Memorial Park in Shreveport, Louisiana.
The family would like to thank all the caregivers that provided care for Barbara in the last year of her life.
