Barbara Rhea Tolbert

Funeral services for Barbara Rhea (McDaniel) Tolbert, age 86, of Wilson, are set for 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at the Alexander Gray Funeral Home Chapel in Wilson, with Pastor Jim McGaughy officiating. Cremation will follow at Alexander Gray Crematory.

Barbara was born on January 7, 1940, to Carl McDaniel and Norva Jean (Hartman) McDaniel. She passed away on September 23, 2026, joining her Lord and Savior. She was a dedicated member of the Wilson Assembly of God Church. Barbara graduated from Courtney High School in 1957. In 1959, she married Jarvis Aaron Smith, and they welcomed their son, Craig Stephen Smith.

Barbara began her career as a telephone operator with Southwestern Bell, later attending beauty school to become a hairdresser. She married Jim Bill Tolbert in 1975 and worked with him at Jim Bill's Cafe and in their catering business until her retirement.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jim Bill Tolbert (2022); and her son, Craig Stephen Smith (2015).

Barbara is survived by her sister and best friend, Sondra White of Marietta; grandchildren, Clayton Smith and wife Ashley of Fort Worth, TX, and Cristen Tucker and husband Cody of Mineola, TX; great-grandchildren, Hudson, Cooper, Beau, and Sydney Smith, and Amelia and Bodie Tucker; as well as her dear friend, Melody McGaughy.

Pallbearers will include Clayton Smith, Cody Tucker, David Hull, Daniel Hull, Dierk Smith, and Hoss Snow. Honorary bearer will be Howard Worley.

Visitation is scheduled for Monday evening from 5-7 PM at Alexander Gray Funeral Home in Wilson. Online condolences can be shared at www.alexandergrayfh.com.