Barbara McCreary

Barbara Lynn Reece McCreary slipped away to Heaven on October 16, 2024.  On October 23, 1938, she was born to Bryan and Edith Pearl Reece in Marshall, Arkansas and became the younger sister of Wilbur Gene. Five years later, she became the older sister of Charles Blaine.  At the age of seven, her family moved to Carroll County, Arkansas, and Barbara and her brothers began attending the Fanning School on Highway 103.  In 1956, the family settled in Green Forest, Arkansas where Barbara made life-long friends and in 1956, she graduated from Green Forest High school.  On October 8, 1957, Barbara and her then husband welcomed the birth of their son, Robbie Lee Estes Jr. 

In 1966 Barbara graduated from the Harrison School of Practical Nursing as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).  She then began serving as a labor and delivery nurse at what was then known as the Boone County Hospital in Harrison, Arkansas (now known as North Arkansas Regional Hospital).  During Barbara’s career, she assisted in bringing thousands of babies into this world.  In her later years, Barbara was still being approached by her former patients who enjoyed reminiscing with Barbara and expressing their appreciation for her care.  After living and working in Harrison for several years, Barbara returned to Green Forest and begin serving as a first-aid nurse at the Green Forest Tyson Food Plant.

As for pastimes, Barbara enjoyed attending family events and visiting with friends, caring for her dogs, and reading Western novels.  Her surviving family--brother Charles, sister-in-law Carrie, and many cousins from Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas, Louisiana, Texas, and Hawaii--take comfort in knowing that Barbara is now with her Savior and reunited with her parents, son Robbie, brother Gene, and many other family members and friends.  We love you, Barbara!

Celebration of Life service for Barbara will be 10 AM, Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at Glenwood Cemetery with Pastor Mark Bryant officiating, and The Arkansas Nurses Honor Guard will make a final presentation. Visitation will be 5-7 PM, Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at the funeral home. Online condolences can be made www.smithfamilyfuneralhome.net.

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