Barbara Jean Smith Charleston

Barbara Jean Smith Charleston was preceded in death by her father, Oscar Lee Smith (Big House); her mother, Thelma Biggers Smith (Thelma or Heavy Hips); her sister, Geraldine Biggers (Jerry); her brothers, Carlton Smith (Baldie), Charles Smith, and Clarence Smith (Blackie); and one daughter, Gwendolyn Smith. Barbara was born on December 21, 1947, at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, to Mr. Oscar Lee Smith Sr. and Mrs. Thelma Biggers Smith. She grew up in the Summerhill community of Atlanta, where she attended Slater Elementary School and Price High School. A hardworking woman throughout her life, Barbara held several jobs, including positions at Shoney's Big Boy, Ashton Woods Nursing Home, Wettarau Bakery, and French's Ice Cream in Atlanta. She later moved to Connecticut, where she continued working until her retirement, before returning home to Georgia. After 78 years around the sun, and 3 days, enjoying life with all of her family and friends, Barbara peacefully fell asleep on December 24, 2025, at Newnan Hospital in Georgia. She leaves to cherish her memory two surviving brothers, Oscar Lee Smith Jr. (June Bug) and Kenneth James Smith (Kenney Ball); two sisters‑in‑law, Ocie Morgan and Deborah Smith (Moody); and her children: Pamela Smith Nichols, married to William Nichols III; Aremeal Wheeler, married to Rico Wheeler; and Clarence E. Williams Jr. Through marriage, she also gained three children: Sonya Yvette Brevard, married to George Brevard; Carolyn Charleston; and David Charleston, married to Rachel Charleston. Barbara is also survived by her grandchildren, great‑grandchildren, and great‑great‑grandchildren, along with a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Barbara was a giver of love, and everyone who encountered her felt that love deeply. She was a strong woman with a generous heart, always willing to help anyone in need. She loved cooking for her family, especially during celebrations, and she gave her life to Christ at an early age. She raised her children to trust in God and to always do what was right. One of her guiding sayings was, "Whatever you do, make sure it's right and be the best at it." Sewing was one of Barbara's greatest passions; she could sit at her machine for hours without taking a break.She also enjoyed cooking, solving puzzles, and playing games on her tablet to keep her mind sharp. Barbara had a true gift for gardening; she was a proud green thumb who could grow anything and revive any plant. Her home was filled with flowers, many of which she lovingly named, reflecting her deep appreciation for nature. Barbara would give you her last if you needed it. Whether it was clothes, food, furniture, or anything she had, she gave freely. She was truly a jewel in our midst. She loved God, and she loved serving people. Barbara met Daniel, the love of her life, in high school. Though they went their separate ways and married others, destiny brought them back together. They later married and shared one child, Pamela Yvette Smith Nichols. Barbara's life was defined by love, generosity, faith, and resilience. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched. Rest in peace Mrs. Barbara Jean. Your brilliance will forever echo in our hearts. Celebration of life services will be held on Sunday, January 4, 2026 at 12:00 PM in the Chapel of McKoon Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until service time. Condolences can be expressed online at www.mckoon.com. McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory (770) 253-4580

Barbara Jean Smith Charleston

December 21, 1947 - December 24, 2025