Barbara Elizabeth Ward Watts Johnson of Glasgow, Virginia, the third born and eldest daughter of six children, was born November 15, 1928, and peacefully departed this life on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at her home surrounded by her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Alice Ward; her siblings, John Henry Burks, John Albert Burks, Ruth Ward and Lawrence Ward Jr.; and her spouses, Melvin Lewis Watts Sr. and Walter Johnson Jr.

Barbara was a special person — a devoted Christian, mother, grandmother, sister and friend.

Those left to cherish her memories are her sister, Alice Brooks; sister-in-law, Simone Ward; her children, Beatrice Johnson, Mary Early (Rodney), Melvin Watts Jr. (fiancée, Valencia), Marvin Watts (Charlotte), and Marjorie Valentine (Vaughan); 10 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; lifetime friend, Nadine Hubbard; two special friends, Ramona Dunn and Emily Lowry; her First Baptist Church Natural Bridge family; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins; and other friends.

Being baptized at an early age, Barbara knew and loved the Lord and found joy in serving. She was a former usher, missionary, an active member of the pastor's aide and culinary committee, and a regular attendee. Also, she enjoyed staying active — giving 30 years of service at Burlington Industries, cutting her own lawn into her upper 80s, cooking delicious meals regularly for others, having spontaneous prayer, games, Karaoke, dancing, other get-togethers, and just enjoying loving her family and friends.

She will truly be missed, always remembered, honored, and loved, but never forgotten. Barbara leaves with us a family legacy of love, prayer, faith, and forgiveness.

A funeral service will be conducted at 1 p.m. Friday, March 24 at First Baptist Church, 385 Buck Hill Road, Natural Bridge, with Pastor Ryan Hubbard officiating. Burial will be private at Mountain View Cemetery, Natural Bridge Station.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 23 at Bolling, Grose and Lotts Funeral Home.

Arrangements are being handled by Bolling, Grose, & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services.