McKissack, Barbara
Barbara McKissack passed away after bravely confronting cancer on March 6th, 2025, surrounded by family in her last days. Barbara was born March 5th, 1943, in Long Beach California, and has resided in Hohenwald, TN for the past 51 years. Up until her very last moments, Barbara remained her authentic self–humorous, spirited, and loving to all around her. Her loved ones take comfort in knowing her last days were full of the things Barbara cherished most in her life: her family, witty jokes that spur an entire room to laugh together, and reminiscing on memories shared.
Barbara is survived by her husband of 64 years, Travis McKissack, her son Travis McKissack II (Tammy Young), daughters Tracie Garlock and Teresa Revelee (Jim Revelee), and daughter-in-love, Mylie McKissack, as well as her nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Francis and Retha Gunsolley, her brother, Dewane Felton, her son, Terry McKissack, and her grandchildren McKinley Revelee and Wesley Revelee.
It is a difficult task to try and encapsulate all that Barbara was in her life of 82 years. She was the matriarch of a large, lively family and often referred to as the “glue” that brought them all together. Her family is full of diverse personalities scattered across the states, and yet she fully and consistently made each member feel accepted and celebrated. This love extended beyond just those in her family tree. Barbara had a knack for making anybody feel safe, cared for, and supported, pairing with that a considerable dose of fiery humor that was sure to make you smile in the moments shared with her. Barbara found joy in people, experiences, and nature. She loved owls and watching hummingbirds enjoy the feeders and flowers on her porch. She always delighted in any time spent by the ocean, and she adored her faithful companion, Fifi.
The family’s hope is that Barbara’s incredible legacy will be remembered by all that knew her in the moments associated most with her. When you sit peacefully on a beach under the expanse of blue sky…When you celebrate your family members at their sports events, weddings, and graduations…When you laugh or sing with a group, appreciating the present with those around you. These are the moments in which Barbara and the love and personhood she represented will continue to live on.
A celebration of life will be held March 16th, 2025, from 1-6 pm at the Lewis County Elks Lodge. The family asks that in lieu of flowers or gifts, you provide a donation to either the Lewis County Cancer Fund or the Lewis County Elks #2883.
