Barbara S. Wrisley

Her infectious laughter is no more and her sweet soprano singing voice has surely been recruited by the Angels. Despite her struggles in the darkness of dementia at life's end she could burst into old songs and hymns and remember most of the lyrics. Barbara Slocomb Wrisley, 92, departed this life on July 5th, 2022, leaving a raft of wonderful memories among her large family and countless friends and acquaintances. She was born in Fitchburg, MA to Estella and Bernard Slocomb on December 10th, 1929. She attended Fitchburg public schools and caught the attention of her husband-to-be in 1946 Glee Club rehearsals. Both graduated high school in the class of 1947 and became engaged in August of that year. Their marriage took place at Fitchburg in August 1948. It was widely believed that teenage marriages do not endure, but this one would have reached its 74th anniversary in August 2022. With two small daughters in tow Barbara and her husband moved to Columbia in 1955. Three more children came along and Barbara remained a stay-at-home mom until the children began to leave the nest, whereupon she began volunteering her arts and crafts skills at nearby Finlay House, a Five Points high rise for seniors. She was eventually offered a receptionist's job and remained on staff in various capacities until retiring as she approached the age of 85. Barbara is survived by her husband, John; children, Karen Dial (widow of the late C.R. "Bobby" Dial), Kathy Gaddy (Larry), David Wrisley (Diana), George Wrisley (Katherine), and Judy Haynes (Jim). Barbara was also the proud grandmother of eleven and a great-grandmother of nine. Temples-Halloran Funeral Home is assisting the family. Owing to the resurgence of individual COVID lockdowns final plans are incomplete. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Columbia Sailing Club Auxiliary (CSCA) would be appreciated. The Columbia Sailing Club was a big part of life for Barbara and her family and she was instrumental in forming the original club auxiliary in 1967. Since then, the CSCA has created countless opportunities for connection, conviviality, and support for the club community. Memorial donations can be sent to: CSCA PO Box 922 Columbia SC 29201 Temples Halloran Funeral Home is assisting the family.