Barbara Barlow

Barbara Barlow passed from this life on April 3, 2026, at surrounded by her loving family at the age of 85.

She was born on May 21, 1940, in Overton County, Tennessee, and spent her life rooted in the values of faith, family, and hard work. Barbara was wed to Shirley Odell Barlow on December 27, 1958.  Barbara was a Christian woman whose life reflected the quiet strength and steady grace that so often bless a family for generations. She worked as a factory worker, and through her labor she helped provide for those she loved. Those who knew her best will remember her as loving, thoughtful, and selfless, always placing the needs of others before her own and offering kindness in simple, meaningful ways.

Barbara found joy in the everyday gifts of life. She loved her cats and took comfort in their companionship. She especially cherished cooking for family dinners, where her home and table became a place of warmth, laughter, and togetherness. She also loved visiting the Great Smoky Mountains, where she could enjoy the beauty of God’s creation and the peace it brought to her heart. Her life was marked by a gentle spirit and a deep appreciation for the blessings the Lord placed in her path.

Her faith was an important part of her life, and she was connected with Poston Chapel Community Church. She lived as a woman who trusted in God’s goodness and sought to walk in a Christian manner. Her example was one of humility, devotion, and steadfast love. In the hearts of her family and friends, she leaves behind a legacy of faithfulness that will not be forgotten.

Barbara is survived by her son, Joe D. Barlow of Gainesboro, Tennessee, and her daughter, Joan L. Sisco of Gainesboro, Tennessee. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Kayla (T J Whittaker) Sisco of Gainesboro, Tennessee, Cody (Kelsey) Barlow of Baxter, Tennessee, Caustyn Fiolek of Gainesboro, Tennessee, Dakota Fiolek of Gainesboro, Tennessee, Sarah (J R) Kinnaird of Cookeville, Tennessee, and Louanna Barlow of Cookeville, Tennessee. Also, she is survived by her son-in-law: Willie Fiolek of Livingston, Tennessee.  Her memory will continue to live on in her great-grandchildren, Kyler, Addi, Hunter, Charly, Aiden, and Alexis, all of Tennessee, who were blessed to know the love and legacy of their grandmother and great-grandmother. Several other family members, nieces, nephews, and friends also survive.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Shirley Odell Barlow who passed away on May 12, 2006, son, Jimmy Barlow, daughter, Joy Fiolek, grandson, Kyle Sisco; step father, Claude "Doc" Wilson, son-in-law, Bill Sisco; father and mother in law, Robert and Rose Barlow.

Those who loved Barbara will remember her for the way she cared for others with a tender heart and a steady hand. She was the kind of woman who made life better for those around her simply by being present. Her family meals, her gentle words, and her quiet acts of service spoke volumes about the depth of her love. She leaves behind a family who will carry her memory with gratitude and affection, and who will continue to honor the values she lived by.

Though her earthly journey has ended, Barbara’s life remains a testimony to the beauty of a faithful Christian life. She has gone to her eternal rest, and her loved ones take comfort in the promise of God’s mercy and the hope of reunion in heaven. May the Lord grant peace and comfort to all who mourn her passing, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 1-8 pm and again on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 10 am to 3 pm at Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 3:00 pm in the chapel of Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home with Bro. Ricky Phillips and Pastor Bobby Scantland officiating. Burial will follow in John L. Clark Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorial donations be made in honor to NHC nursing staff by contacting the business office of the funeral home.

Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931) 268-1550