Barbara Rountree Stephenson

Yadkinville Mrs. Barbara Leigh Rountree Stephenson, 91, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 24, 2022 at her home. Barbara was born on July 16, 1931 in South Norfolk, VA to William Linwood and Nellie Sherman Rountree. She was an excellent student, avid learner and she valued education, traits she passed on to her children and grandchildren. She finished high school and two years of business college by the time she was seventeen. She worked on and off for the federal government as a dedicated civil servant for a combined total of 15 years. In 1949, she met and married the love of her life, Billy Joe Stephenson and they were married for 67 years before his death in 2016. It did not matter whether they were in one of the 40 countries they traveled to, walking at the local mall, or solving the daily crossword puzzle from the comfort of their living room chairs, they always found happiness in each other's company. Our family is grateful knowing that they are finally reunited. Barbara is survived by her three amazing children and their spouses, Billy “Steve” (Patti) Stephenson, (deceased), Jr., Scott (Nancy) Stephenson, and Linda (Keith) Wood. Barbara was influential in the lives of each of her grandchildren, Jeffrey (Stasia Hause) Stephenson, Jenna (Jason Pierce) Stephenson; Kristen (Hunter) Crews, Lindsay (Brian) Vines, Elise (Will) Scott. Barbara lovingly doted on her ten great-grandchildren, Clara Stephenson, Valen & River Pierce, Jackson & Carter Crews, Sawyer, Hadley & Stella Joe Vines, and Kate & Mia Scott. She was a loving sister to Ola Cropper, and aunt to Karen Cropper and Gale (Don) Schulte. Barbara’s greatest gift to her family was her unwavering love and support. She was a present and influential part of each of their lives, no matter how many miles separated them. She would often cheer for the Hokies in support of her three Virginia Tech alumni. Barbara traveled to support her grandchildren over the course of 40 years of theatrical productions, volleyball and soccer games, numerous high school and college graduation ceremonies, and danced at each of their weddings. She was the best role model for her family, as she lived a life of integrity, service, and most importantly unconditional love. Barbara was a treasured and devoted friend to many, men and women alike. She always provided a listening ear, smiles and laughter, sound advice and stories of her life and experiences. She was a member of Yadkinville UMC. Her church and the wonderful friends she met there were very special to Barbara. She will be sorely missed by those that called her friend. A graveside service was conducted at 3:00PM, Monday, September 26, 2022 at Forsyth Memorial Park with Pastor Jonathan Gaylord officiating. SERVICE UPDATE A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, December 17, 2022 at 11:30 AM at Yadkinville United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be made at www.gentryfuneralservice.com.