Barbara Powell LeMay of Sheffield, AL went to be with the Lord on the morning of March 23, 2023. She is survived by her sons Russell Barden LeMay and his wife Tana, Ralph Evans LeMay, as well her grandchildren, Luke Christensen (Emily), Cade LeMay, Sarah Christensen, Rhett LeMay, Mary-Helen LeMay and Russell Jankowski.
Predeceasing her in death are her husband Robert B. LeMay and parents, Mignon and Kermit Powell and her brothers, Kenneth, Donnie and Ronnie Powell
Barbara was a native of Welford, SC. She was a lifelong educator which was her true passion. Holding a master’s degree in English from Converse College in South Carolina, Barbara taught at James F. Byrnes High School in Duncan, SC, Jacksonville State University, University of North Alabama, Northwest Shoals Community College, and Covenant Christian School.
In 2004, she was awarded the Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers Award. She was a member of Sheffield First United Methodist Church where she taught a couple’s Sunday School class for more than 50 years. Barbara was active in UMW, weekly prayer groups and consistently volunteered with the church activities. She was a member of the Panaroma Study club and Rivermont Garden Club.
The family would like to sincerely thank those at Florence Rehab and Nursing for their excellent care while Barbara was there. They would also like to thank Joey Poss of Centerwell Home Health who served her as a patient and loving therapist as well as Laura Lowery of Enhabit Hospice for her kindness and compassion through this most difficult time. And of course, Mindy Goodson, Barbara’s personal caregiver who they now consider family. Mindy’s attentiveness, thoughtfulness and care is so greatly appreciated. God certainly had a plan and put all these wonderful people in Barbara’s life when she needed it most. This is a testament to how she led her selfless life to others waiting on Gods glory.
Services will be held Monday, March 27 at Sheffield First United Methodist Church with Bobby Scales officiating. Visitation will be from 11 am to 1 pm with the service starting at 1pm. The pall bearers will be Chris Hall, Tim DeMorse, Lee Young, Joe Donaldson, Charlie Grimmett and Billy Burton. In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to Sheffield First United Methodist Church in honor of Barbara’s life
