Barbara Reynolds

Barbara W. Reynolds, 90, of Forest, Virginia, passed into heaven on October 2, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. While small in stature, she embodied a fierceness, strength, and compassion that was unmatched, especially toward her love of family. She was an avid advocate of celebrating the big and little things in life, Christmas was a year-round holiday, and a firm believer that getting old was mandatory, but growing up was optional. She never knew a stranger; she loved, and was loved, by all that ever met her. Grandma was her official title by countless children. There was never an art, craft, or music project that she couldn’t master; this gift was freely given to her church, elementary schools, and nursing homes with numerous projects, productions, bible school, and Sunday school, most recently at Bethany Methodist Church.

To say that Barbara’s family was her pride and joy is an understatement. She is survived by her immediate family: daughters: Ellen McBride, Susan Roth (Juergen), and Sharon Wright (Roger), grandchildren: Heather Harris, Melanie Zinchook (TJ), Adam Hotaling, Tara Hotaling, and Daniel Roth (Nyomi), great-grandchildren: Eden Hotaling, Trinity Hotaling, Zoey Hotaling, Logan Zinchook, Hunter Zinchook, Colton Zinchook, and Tucker Zinchook, and former son-in-law and friend: Frank Hotaling. Also surviving are her sisters, brothers, and their families: Betty Hamilton, John Paul, Frank Paul, Lyndi Bilyue, Merri Gresch, Connie Wright and siblings, and a host of other beloved extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of almost 70 years, Larry D. Reynolds, her mother, Dorothy Paul, and her sister, Delores Griner.

Barbara thrived on family, traveling, and dining out for any occasion. She visited all 50 states and a couple countries with her husband. She loved anything fancy, artistic, or any holiday where she could decorate, dress up, or celebrate. Genealogy was a passion and favorite pastime. Each new fact, piece of information, or historical relevance was paired with an enthusiastic story. She was truly a lady ahead of her time in her thoughts, opinions, beliefs, acceptance, and abilities.

Rest in peace, Barbara Whitlow Reynolds. Your memory will forever be cherished by all who knew you.

A Graveside Service will be held at Virginia Memorial Park on Monday, October 6, 2025, at 1:00pm (11490 Forest Rd, Forest, VA 24551).

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Forest Volunteer Fire Department.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.