Mrs. Barbara Jewel McKee

Celebrating the life well lived of Deaconess and Mother, Mrs. Barbara Jewel McKce, born September 7, 1948, to Hollie Shepherd and Georgia Anne Spann. Affectionately known as "Bobby" and lovingly called "Shep." a tribute to her maiden name, Shepherd, she brought warmth, laughter, and steadfast love to all who knew her. Her life was a blessing-rooted in family. generosity, and unwavering faith that continues to shine in the hearts she touched. From a young age, Barbara possessed inspiring determination and compassion for people. The Brandon/Langford community was not just where she grew up it was home. There she raised her children, welcomed grandchildren, and formed lifelong friendships. On February 20, 2026, at the age of 77, she peacefully passed away in the place that shaped her life, completing a beautiful circle of life, love, family, and faith. Barbara graduated from Carter High School in 1967. She later earned an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education from Holmes Community College and completed her studies at Tougaloo College. She dedicated her career to early childhood development, serving with Head Start of America and later Friends of Children, shaping countless young lives—many of whom are among us today as a testament to her legacy. Barbara accepted Christ at an early age at True Vine Baptist Church and remained a faithful member until her departure. She served in the Gospel Choir, as a Sunday School Teacher, weekly Food Pantry volunteer, the Widows Ministries, a Deaconess, and the President of the Home Mission. On April 14, 1968, Barbara united in holy matrimony with Ralph Boyce McKee, and to this union, they were blessed with four children; Ralph, Cassandra, Kim, and Candilyn. Barbara also shared an unbreakable bond with her siblings, a connection rooted in love, loyalty, and shared memories especially her sisters, whose relationship she loved dearly and held close to her heart. Whether shopping, traveling, or preparing a home-cooked meal, she treasured any occasion that brought family and friends together. To many, she was simply "Aunt Bobby," by blood and by love! Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph "Dripper" McKee; her son, Ralph Edward McKee: parents, Hollie Shepherd and Gorgia Anne Bilbro: stepmother, Mrs. Lemmie Lee Taylor Shepherd; sisters, Ruth Floyd, Ella Jean Macklin, Margaret Boone, and Dorothy (Wilbert) Willis; and brothers, William Taylor, Jr.. Samuel Taylor, Winston Taylor, Willie Earl Taylor, Kenneth Shepherd, and John Wesley Taylor. Though she is no longer with us, her love, wisdom and prayers remain. Barbara leaves behind to cherish her memory. her children Cassandra McKee, Kim (Marcus) Daniel, and Candilyn Tenner; grandchildren, Mario Allison, Nicholas Taylor, Candilyn McKee, Corey Moore II, Kyla Moore, Marquis Tenner, Crissi Tenner, Madison Tenner, and Kennedie Daniel: Great-grandchildren: Chazlyn McKee and Alaiya Tenner; five sisters, Jimmie (Lossie) O Neal, Betty Taylor, Mary Ann Taylor, and Dianne (Sylvester) Burton and Alice (Joe) Norris; two brothers: Clarence (Lestine) Taylor and Danny Thompson; brothers in law, Eddie (Denise) McKee and J.P. Allen; sisters in law, Roberta Ward, Carrie Bell (James) Epps, Dorothy (Jesse) Adams, Earlene McKee and Betty McKee; god-children, Richard, Ryan, and Steven Green, Charlie McKee, Cassandra Faye Taylor, and Genesis McNair; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Mrs. Barbara Jewel McKee

September 7, 1948 - February 20, 2026