Gwendolyn “Gwen” Ellis Barbee

Gwendolyn Ellis Barbee, 87, of Oakboro, passed away peacefully Friday, November 12, 2021 at Spring Arbor.

Gwen was born January 22, 1934 in Columbus County to the late William Frederick Ellis and the late Golia Jane Ellis. She was also preceded in death by loving husband of 56 years Billy Joe Barbee, granddaughter Crystal Barbee, son-in-law Ronnie Heafner, and sisters, Mary Bass and Pauline Joyner.

Gwen was a devout Christian who served her church in many capacities from teaching Sunday School to singing in the Choir. She was also a member of Singing Americans for many years. She was an amazing mother and a proud Nana. She and her husband loved traveling the country together with friends. Gwen had a hair business for over 50 years where she formed lasting friendships with all of her clientele. She loved cooking and spending time with family.

There will be a  lie in state from 1:00 pm - 1:45 pm, Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 17236 Frog Pond Road, Oakboro. The funeral service will be at 2:00 pm officiated by Dr. Shad Hicks and Pastor Trent Drye with burial at the Church Cemetery. The family will then receive friends after the burial in the fellowship hall.

Survivors include sons, Russ (Terry) Barbee of Oakboro, NC, Rod (Regina) Barbee of Albemarle, NC, Ren (Robin) Barbee of Albemarle, NC, and daughter, Rena  Heafner of Oakboro, NC; 11 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren; brothers, Buddy Ellis, James Ellis, and Larry Ellis; sister, Hazel Coleman; and many loved nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Stanly County, Albemarle, NC, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Charlotte, NC.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the Barbee family.