Obituary of Barbara Ann Cummings Reed

Barbara Ann Cummings Reed, 67, of Mebane, NC, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Wednesday, December 11, 2024. Born on April 24, 1957, in Elkin, NC, she was the daughter of the late Robert James “Bob” Cummings, Sr., and Hazel Mounce Cummings. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Joe I. Reed; her brother, Robert James “R.J.” Cummings, Jr.; and her sister, Brenda Cummings Spence.

Barbara leaves behind her beloved sister, Karen Sue Armstrong-Cummings, and her sister-in-law, Jo Anne Cummings, who will miss her deeply. She is also survived by her many nieces and nephews—Rebecca Cummings, Jennifer Cummings, Patrick Spence, Daniel Armstrong, Robert Cummings, Molly Martin, Emily Reed Barratta, Beth Greer, Stan Reed, Jr., Julie Mayfield, David Reed, Deana Sharpe, Shannon Wessinger, and Andrea Reed—of whom she was so proud and loved spending time with. Barbara also adored her two small “dog nephews,” who brought her endless joy.

After earning her Bachelor of Science degree from Jacksonville State University in Alabama and continuing her studies at Duke University, Barbara worked as a microbiologist at Duke University Hospital for over thirty years. She was deeply proud of her work, which she loved and recognized as an essential part of patient care.

Barbara’s interests extended beyond her professional life. She was a devoted NASCAR fan, a classic car enthusiast, a lover of old movies, and a proud member of the Timeless Cruisers car club. Through the club, she combined her love for cars with her dedication to charitable causes.

A visitation and celebration of Barbara’s life will be held on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Walker’s Funeral Home of Mebane. Visitation will begin at 12:00 PM, followed by a celebration of life service at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Barbara’s memory may be made to Greater Good Charities Disaster Relief for Hurricanes Helene at greatergood.org.