Barbara Free

A native of Whitmire, South Carolina, Barbara attended Sims Chapel Baptist Church and graduated in 1962 from Gallman High School in Newberry, South Carolina. She continued her education at Benedict College, where she earned her degree in 1966 and pledged Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

She was a beloved educator and devoted family matriarch. Upon graduation, Barbara devoted 35 years to education in the Union County School system, touching countless lives before retiring in 2006. She culminated her career as a middle school World History teacher, where her passion for learning and dedication to her students left an indelible mark on the community.

A woman of vision and grace, Barbara was a founding member of Iris Incorporated, a social club dedicated to the development of young women. She took pride in helping organize the first Debutante Ball in Union, South Carolina, for African American young women,creating opportunities for them to be formally introduced to society.

Barbara had an extraordinary gift for decorating, effortlessly transforming any space into a place of beauty, warmth, and charm. She loved flowers, had impeccable taste, and often decorated for weddings and events. She had a designer's touch and paid attention toevery detail, making every room she touched feel special. She also found great joy in shopping at her favorite store, Belk, especially when selecting gifts for her beloved grandchildren.

Those She Loved

She leaves to cherish in her memory her son, Howard (Regina) Free Jr.; her daughter, Venyke (Warren) Harley; her sister, Deborah (Vernon) Pitts; sister-in- law, Diane Griffin; five grandchildren, Brandon Harley, Howard Free III, Lauren Harley, Hunter Free, and Hughston Free; one great-grandchild, Isaiah Free; two nieces, Alana (Curtis) Cannon and Kelinda (Tony) Hill Mitchell; one nephew, Tony Harris; god daughter, Regina (Daniel) Mitchell, and a host of cousins and friends whose lives she touched.

Barbara Free's legacy of education, service, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her devotion to family, commitment to young people, and gracious spirit will forever be cherished.

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