Barbara Reames, 75 of South Pittsburg passed away on Friday, February 6, leaving behind a legacy of love, generosity, and quiet strength.
Barbara spent her life caring for others in the most genuine ways. She loved her
family with her whole heart and she had a gift for making everyone around her feel
seen and cherished. If there was a moment worth remembering, Barbara was there
with her camera—capturing smiles, milestones, and the everyday beauty she never
wanted to forget. Her photos and videos now stand as a treasure for the people she
loved.
She found joy in simple pleasures: flowers in bloom, yard sales, and peaceful days
spent in Cade’s Cove. Those who knew her best will remember how she lit up when
she talked about the mountains or when she was surrounded by the nieces,
nephews, and grandson she adored. Caring for them wasn’t a duty to her—it was
one of her greatest joys.
Barbara was deeply involved in the life of Snowford Second Advent Church. She
poured her energy into teaching the teenage Sunday school class, guiding and
encouraging young people with patience, faith, and genuine care.
Barbara is preceded in death by her husband of 51 years John Reames, who was
the love of her life, as well as her parents Frank and Ella McAllister, her sister Glenda
Steele and her brother Ricky McAllister.
She leaves behind her sister whom she lovingly raised as a daughter Mary (Adam)
Dawson, her brothers Billy (Peggy) McAllister, Harold (Joy) McAllister and
Shannon (Anna) McAllister, her grandson Cade Dawson who brought her endless
pride, and a large circle of nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews who will
forever carry her influence in their hearts.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Lisa Hall, Peggy Dalton,
Phyllis VanAllman, Melissa Allison, and Kay Reames for the love and dedication
they showed Barbara. They also wish to thank Hearth Hospice, especially Evan
Hayes and Quanessa Buchannon for the compassion and comfort they provided
during her final days.
Barbara’s life was defined by kindness, devotion, and the way she made everyone
feel like family. Her absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but her love will
continue to guide those she leaves behind.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday, February 11 at 1 p.m. at the South Pittsburg Chapel of Rogers Funeral Home, with Pastor Melvin Dawson who officiated.
Barbara was laid to rest with her beloved husband John Reames at Sequatchie Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Jasper.
Visitation was held on Tuesday, February 10 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and on Wednesday, February 11 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., prior to the funeral service in the South Pittsburg Chapel of Rogers Funeral Home being held.
Pallbearers were Mark Phillips, Hal Phillips, Lebron Grider, Chad Reed, Scott Thomas and Jeremy Haynes.
Arrangements were entrusted to Rogers Funeral Home, 400 Laurel Ave, South Pittsburg, Tennessee 37380. (423) 837-7176.
The Marion Tribune – February 12, 2026