Barbara Bailey Clary

Barbara Bailey Clary, 87, of Batesburg, passed away peacefully in her home on January 1, 2025. Born in Sumter, SC, she was a daughter of Woodrow W. and Gladys White Bailey of Charleston, SC. Mrs. Clary loved the Lord and her family unconditionally and always brought so much joy to their lives. Barbara grew up in Charleston, where she learned to love the Lord and depend on him while attending Rutledge Avenue Baptist Church. She graduated from Rivers High School, Charleston, SC, and Anderson Junior College and was church secretary for Ashley River Baptist Church. It was there she met and married Thomas "Bud" Clary. They moved to West Columbia, where she worked for the SC Baptist General Board while Bud got his degree at the University of South Carolina. They were active members of Northside Baptist Church, West Columbia. After moving to Batesburg, First Baptist Church became their church home. She also enjoyed working with Lexington School District #3. Many years were spent working with the SC Department of Mental Health at Crafts Farrow State Hospital, a medical secretary at CM Tucker, Jr. Human Resource Services, and retired as Administrative Coordinator of the SC Department of Mental Health Office of General Council.

Surviving are her sons, Carlton W. Clary of Gilbert and Jeffrey C. Clary of Batesburg; grandchildren, Jennifer Clary, Andrew Clary, Julie Clary, Matthew Clary (Jennifer), Amber Kirkland (Gideon), and Bailey Clary; great-grandchildren, Scarlette, Jensen, Bjorn, Diana, and two more on the way. Also surviving are her nieces and nephews that she loved very dearly: Tom Sowles (Denise), Mike Sowles (Jennifer), Randy Sowles (Janene), Mark Sowles (Stephanie), Scott Nigels (Cindy), and Mark Nigels (Lisa). In addition to her parents, Mrs. Clary was preceded in death by her husband and best friend of 50 years, Thomas C. Clary; daughter-in-law, Angela H. Clary, and her loving sister, Betty B. Sowles.

The graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, January 5th, at Ridge Crest Memorial Park in Batesburg, with Mr. Scott Nigels officiating. The family will greet friends immediately following. Milton Shealy Funeral Home of Batesburg is assisting the family.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Batesburg, 436 West Church Street, Batesburg, SC 29006.

Mrs. Clary wanted to give special thanks to her family and loyal friends, who were so loving and kind. May God bless you all.