Committal
Barbara Vashti Lingerfelt, 73, of Morganton, NC, passed away Saturday, December 9, 2023.
Born in Burke County, NC on August 21, 1950, she was the daughter of the late James Herbert Lingerfelt and Jeanette Jacqueline Peeler Lingerfelt.
Barbara was a member of First Baptist Church in Morganton and the Burke County Retired School Personnel. She was a 1968 graduate of Morganton High School, attended East Carolina University, and graduated with an MA degree in special education from Appalachian State University. She worked in various educational positions, traveling across the state to present workshops pertaining to the education of special children.
Barbara loved animals. She fed many neighborhood cats and had her special cat children, Inky and Rusty. She adopted Baby Piper, an abused dog, and loved her even though she was old and blind. Barbara was a fighter for what is right and helped many parents of special children.
She is survived by her sister, Jacquelyn “Jackie” Ward; nephew, Bryan Duckworth (Karen); nieces, Susan L. Fike (Curt) and Kate L. Caraway (Chris); great-niece, Hayley Caraway; great-nephews, Carson Duckworth, Hayden Caraway, Luke Murray, Noah Murray, Riley Caraway, and Tanner Duckworth; sister-in-law, Marilyn Hotchkiss Lingerfelt; and God-sons, Rob and Zac Denton.
In addition to her parents, Barbara was preceded in death by a brother, Danny Lingerfelt; and brother-in-law, Dave Ward.
The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 p.m., Saturday, December 23, 2023 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The memorial service will follow at 3 p.m. in the Colonial Chapel of the funeral home with Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. and Rev. Fred Schuszler officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to A Better Life Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 8311, Morganton, NC 28680.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Wow, it was such a shock for me to hear of her passing Sunday. I had just received a FB message from her on Thurs. She had such a big heart filled with so much love for her family, her friends, and, of course, and two fur babies, Inky and Rusty. She was an amazing person in so many ways and will be sorely missed by the many people whose lives she touched.
I am so sorry that Barbara has passed away. In a world with so much darkness she was a source of light and hope. Barbara made vital contributions to the world in many ways especially animal husbandry and rescue. In addition she was supportive of others who were suffering from severe illness or loss. Moreover by being foundational in administering a Facebook group for graduates of Morganton High School she provided a conduit for MHS alumni to connect. My deepest condolences to Barbara’s friends and family.
We were so sorry to hear of Barbara's passing. Barbara's love for children and their families and the Advocacy given in her career deserves great respect. Her love and advocacy of animals in need were also great additions to our community. Our sympathies are with her family.
I’m so sorry for all of you. Barbara worked with my husband. We absolutely loved her. My love and prayers are with you at this time. Jane Rock Pope
So sorry for your loss
I enjoyed having Barbara as a neighbor from 1990 until I sold my house in 1995. I was always impressed with her friendliness and kindness to animals, and her willingness to help those less fortunate. We enjoyed dinners and phone conversations in the years following my move. She will be sorely missed. I look forward to seeing her again at Christ's return.
My prayers and condolences to the family and friends of Barbara's. We will miss her and her contributions to our MHS Alumni committee. Rest in Peace Barbara.
Jackie, so sorry for the loss of your sister, may our Lord give you peace and comfort in the days ahead, my prayers are with you🙏🏼❤️
You lit up the lives of the helpless You were truly a good friend and deeply missed ❤️ I leave this lit candle to represent your life here and beyond.
My deepest sympathy to all of Barbara’s family! So sorry to hear of her sudden death! My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of great loss! Love and prayers for all!