Barbara Jean Lybrand, born on September 11, 1943, in Pelion, South Carolina, peacefully transitioned from this life on Sunday, March 29, 2026, after a lifetime devoted to caring for others.

From an early age, Barbara displayed exceptional intelligence and determination. In 1957, at just 13 years old, she made history as the first African American to win her city's spelling bee—an achievement that foreshadowed a life marked by excellence and perseverance.

Barbara's passion for helping others led her into the field of nursing. In 1974, she attended Forsyth Technical Community College, where she earned her licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Continuing her education, she later attended Guilford Technical Community College and, in 1995, obtained her Associate Degree in Nursing, ultimately becoming a Registered Nurse.

Barbara began her professional career at Wake Forest University/North Carolina Baptist Hospital, where she faithfully served as a Staff Nurse in Medical-Surgical and as a Primary Nurse in the Psychiatry Department. Her compassion, skill, and unwavering commitment to her patients left a lasting impact on all who crossed her path.

She later served as a Nurse Supervisor at Lowery Family Care from 1999 to 2004, where she assessed patient needs, developed care plans, and ensured quality healthcare delivery. She also worked as a Nurse Coordinator at Crawford's Pointe, continuing her legacy of service.

After dedicating over 40 years to nursing, Barbara retired from Baptist Hospital, leaving behind a remarkable legacy and countless meaningful relationships that endure to this day.

In retirement, Barbara embraced life fully. She enjoyed spending time with her family, traveling with friends, listening to music, reading, solving Sudoku puzzles, and offering wisdom and advice to those around her. Known for her humor, she brought laughter and light wherever she went.

In her later years, she remained committed to service as the Chairperson of the Nursing Board at Mars Hill Baptist Church, continuing to care for others in both body and spirit.

Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Geneva Lybrand; her sister, Janie Mae Jenkins-Clark; and her brother, Jdern Lybrand.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving daughter, Deborah Lybrand; granddaughter, Montenia Lybrand; grandson, Aaron Lybrand; great-grandchildren, Naziya Lybrand, Jayron Hartwell, Zaria Strickland, and Jaxon Lybrand; along with many goddaughters, extended family members, and a host of dear friends.

Barbara's life was a testament to love, strength, service, and joy. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Funeral services will be held at 12:30pm Saturday April 4, 2026 at Mars Hill Baptist Church. The family will receive friends from 12 pm-12:30 pm at the church Saturday. Interment will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery. There will be no public viewing.