Barbara Nevins Tally

Barbara Nevins Tally, 81, of Summerfield, North Carolina, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, October 25, 2026. Born in Durham, NC on August 16, 1945, she was the eldest daughter of the late Donald Porter Nevins and Nannie Neal Nevins.

After graduating from high school in Pittsylvania County, VA, Barbara worked for more than thirty years for DuPont in Martinsville, VA. Starting in manufacturing on the factory floor, she quickly moved up to become the secretary and medical office manager for the factory’s onsite doctor. No stranger to hard work, Barbara also helped family pull tobacco, show horses, and raise Angus cattle over the years.

Barbara enjoyed entertaining family and friends, growing flowers, and tending her large houseplant collection. She loved a good cup of coffee, mystery novels, fashion, home decor, and chats with loved ones. Always curious about the world around her, Barbara loved meeting new people and quickly made friends wherever she went. Barbara spent some of her childhood in Germany while her father was stationed there after World War II, and she continued to explore the world around her with trips across the United States and abroad, including a visit to friends in Brazil.

In addition to her parents, Barbara was predeceased by her son, Anthony (Andy) Leon Griffin; husband, Dr. Richard “Dick” Tally, DVM; and stepson, Dave Tally. She is survived by her beloved son, Jon Franklin Griffin (Julie Griffin), and family of Ringgold, VA; sisters, Deborah Owen (Freddy) and Myra Meissner (Rob) of Danville, VA; stepdaughter, Cynthia Rutledge (Mark) of Crestline, California; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Playfully referred to as “MOAB”—Mean Ol’ Aunt Barbara—she also leaves behind one niece, Meredith Franklin (Stetson), three nephews, Robert, Nevin, and Neal Meissner (Allison), one great-niece, and three great-nephews.

Honoring Barbara’s wishes, there will be no formal public memorial service. Please remember Barbara in your own special way, whether with a donation in her memory to your favorite charity or simply a cup of coffee with a loved one.