Barbara Lorraine Zachery

Barbara Lorraine Zachery, age 83, of Douglasville, Georgia passed away on Friday, March 21, 2025. Born in the small town of Villa Rica, Georgia, on March 27, 1941, to Willie Lorraine McCoy and Ollie Edward Luke, Barbara was the eldest of nine children—a natural leader and nurturer from the very beginning. Her early years were marked by faith and family, and it was at New Mountain Top Church that she was lovingly dedicated, beginning a lifelong journey of fierce devotion to God.

Barbara’s faith was not just part of her life—it was her life. She loved the Lord with an intensity that could only be described as viciously beautiful, and her gentle spirit carried the fire of divine wisdom. She was a steadfast presence in the church, not only in attendance but in purpose. With grace and humility, she taught the Word of God to anyone who would listen—friends, neighbors, and family alike—always eager to share the light that filled her heart. Her lessons were powerful, her spirit infectious, and her love for Christ unmatched.

She believed deeply in the living power of Scripture. She would write in her Bible, speak the Word aloud, and call it into her life with conviction—most memorably with the phrase:

“Come thy kingdom, be done in my life… family.”

These sacred words, written in her own hand, were etched with intention and faith—a reflection of the life she lived and the legacy she leaves behind.

Barbara was the heart of her family—the unshakable backbone, the quiet force who held everyone together. Whether through a warm meal, a carefully sewn garment, or a wise word softly spoken, Barbara lived to serve, support, and uplift others. She was a masterful baker, an extraordinary chef, and a gifted seamstress, crafting garments with elegance and care. Her hands could heal, create, and provide—and she gave of herself generously. She baked anything and everything from scratch, from decadent pies and cakes to perfect custards and meringues. Barbara’s baking was art. Friends, neighbors, and even strangers would seek out her sweets—her kitchen was a place of joy, comfort, and irresistible aromas. What she created with her hands brought warmth to homes and smiles to hearts.

Barbara proudly worked at Nabisco from 1977 to 2001, serving for 24 years with dedication, a true testament to her strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.

She was always elegant, dependable, and kind. Her presence was a steady reminder of strength wrapped in gentleness. She taught by example, and one of her most cherished sayings lives on in those who loved her:

“Respect hard work and work hard for everything you have.”

Among her proudest accomplishments was returning to school to obtain her GED, proving that it’s never too late to chase your goals. She was also a proud member of the Les Soeurs Club, a beloved social group where she found joy, connection, and sisterhood.

Barbara was a loving wife to the late Robert Alvin Zachery, a devoted mother to Rosalind Zachary, Donna Moreland, and Tony Zachery, a cherished grandmother of six, great-grandmother of eighteen, and great-great-grandmother of one. Through every generation, her wisdom and love echo on—a legacy of strength, warmth, and unwavering faith.

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in knowing she is resting in eternal peace, reunited with her beloved husband and held in the arms of the Lord she so passionately served. She has run her race with grace, and Heaven has surely welcomed home one of its most faithful daughters.

Rest well, Barbara. Your life was a testimony, and your legacy will never fade.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, March 26 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Thursday, March 27, New Mountain Top Baptist Church 7822 Conners Rd, Winston, GA 30187 with Bishop Reginald Litman officiating. Entombment will follow at Rosehaven Cemetery in Douglasville.

If ordering a floral tribute, please contact our preferred florist for guaranteed service: Frances Florist, 12641 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Douglasville, GA 770-949-8711, or www.FrancesFlorist.net .

Whitley Garner at Rosehaven is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements of Ms. Barbara Lorraine Zachery.