Barbara Ivey O’Neal

Barbara Ivey O’Neal, age 86, passed peacefully in her sleep Saturday, July 20, 2024, in Durham, NC. Born on March 8, 1938, to Leon and Kathryn Ivey in Hickory, NC, Barbara led a life filled with love, laughter, and a deep connection to spirituality.
She graduated from Salem Academy in Winston-Salem, NC, in 1956, and earned her bachelor's degree from Duke University in 1960.

Throughout her lifetime, Barbara found joy in a myriad of activities. She engaged in spirited discussions in book groups. She appreciated music, gardening, going barefoot, and being delightfully silly with friends and family. Barbara was known for making mischief, and cherishing lifelong friendships. Dogs held a special place in her heart, and she was always transported by classical music. She had a passion for traveling, camping in the woods, enjoying fire pits, and curling up with a good book. Barbara took pleasure in spoiling her grandchildren, and using her wit to entertain the staff at her group care home.

Barbara was married to Gene Hafer in 1961 and to Ed O’Neal in 1976. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ed O’Neal, her brothers Dr. Tom Ivey and Leon Ivey Jr., and her daughter, Kathryn Lynne Hafer.
She is survived by her daughters, Susan Richman and Janet Lamb (Chris), her grandchildren, Lynne Stelljes (Matt), Liz Richman, and Derek and Michael Lamb. Barbara is also survived by her ex-husband, Gene Hafer (Holly), her sister, Adelyn Ivey Dodd, her niece and nephew, Lee Williamson and Laura Kirkpatrick (Dennis), and her great-nephew, Franek Williamson.

Barbara’s daughters would like to express their appreciation for the loving care given by the staff of Rockbridge Senior Care Home during her later years.

Family and friends, please drop in to celebrate Barbara’s life between 1-3 pm on August 31st at The Overture, 5910 Farrington Rd, Chapel Hill, NC. She wanted us to dress casually, enjoy some refreshments, and tell each other stories about her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to your local hospice or animal shelter.