Barbara Tolley Baxley passed away at home on February 9, 2022 after a prolonged battle with Parkinson's and related Alzheimer's.  She was 79 years old.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Josephine Tolley, her brother Albert Tolley, her brother Terry Tolley, her sister Shirley Cornish, her sister in-law Ann Doering and Ann's husband: Butch Follett, and her son James Tolley Baxley.  She is survived by her husband, James M. Baxley, her daughter Robyn Baxley, her sister Linda Carr, Albert's wife: Juanita Tolley, Terry's wife: Reiko Tolley, her sister in-law Margaret, and Margaret's husband: Bill Billard, and several nieces and nephews.

Barbara was born in Radford, VA on September 8, 1942.  She and her husband moved to Galax, VA in 1967, and Barbara retired in 2006 after 30 years with the Carroll County Department of Social Services.  During her time at Social Services, she worked tirelessly to support foster children and went above and beyond delivering Stockings (donated by Vaughn Bassett) on cold Christmas Eves, and securing jobs for children in the system, as well as those aging out of the system.  She volunteered her time and money to Oakland Backpack buddies, and supported many local, state and national charities.  Barbara was a stabilizing influence for so many children and families.

Barbara's Motto was "I can do that."  Whether it was baking delicious cakes and cookies, laying brick, coaching baseball, decorating elaborate jack-o-lanterns, or preparing and serving dinner for 12, she was ready for any challenge.  She had a dry wit and a kind tongue, and an infectious laugh that drew people to her. She loved people, and her home was filled with good food and great fellowship.  Everyone was welcome.

Over the years, Barbara was an active member of her community through her support of sports and the arts.  She played several sports in school in Radford, played on teams with the Radford Recreation Department, and remained a Bobcat through and through.  She was also an avid VA Tech fan, and attended many Nascar races.  She was a member of the Galax Country Club and took advantage of every opportunity to play tennis and golf.  Because of her belief in the importance of sports in the life of a child, she was Commissioner of Dixie League Youth Baseball in Carroll County and served on the Carroll County, and Galax, Parks and Recreation Commissions.

She loved music.  After singing in the Radford Carter Street Methodist Youth Choir and the Radford High School Choir, Barbara went on to sing in the Galax First Baptist Church Choir.  Choir wasn't the only outlet for her love of music, however; she was also a member of the Galax Theater Guild, and appeared in several productions including:  "The Sound of Music" and "Fiddler on the Roof".   She was also a season ticket holder for Barter Theater in Abingdon, and attended many performances each year.

In her spare time, Barbara enjoyed quilting (several of which are on display in her home), needlepoint, travel, being a member of the Antique Car Club and gardening.  She took great pleasure in tending her rose garden, and would often sit on the back deck to give her beloved dogs belly rubs.  She was loved by many, and will be missed.

No service will be held at this time, due to the continuing threat of Covid.  In lieu of flowers, the Family asks that you contribute to your local athletic association.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.vaughanguynn.com