Dathne Blackard Barbour

Dathne Blackard Barbour, 81, of Martinsville, VA passed away on Thursday, September 3, 2026. She was born on May 6, 1945, at Shackelford Hospital in Martinsville, VA to the late Era Bray Blackard and Benton S. Blackard. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Donald Lee Barbour, they were married on January 20, 1967, at First Baptist Church of Martinsville. She was preceded in death by her brother, Benton “Benny” Bray Blackard.

She was a devoted member of First Baptist Church, where she found a deep sense of faith and community. It was there that she and her daughter were baptized together, a special moment that reflected the importance of her faith and family. She was a proud graduate of Radford University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree. During her time at Radford, she discovered and embraced her love of dance and was a member of Orchesis. She danced as a ballerina and created memories that would remain with her throughout her life. Later in her life she was a member of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority.

After graduating from Radford University, she dedicated thirteen years to teaching, sharing her love of learning and her caring spirit with countless children. She taught fourth grade at Joseph Martin Elementary School, where she touched the lives of her students through her patience, kindness, and genuine desire to help them succeed. She also had a deep love for the beach, which became her second home. Island Dunes at North Myrtle Beach held a special place in her heart.

Above all, she was the true definition of a gracious and loving person. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and at home. Her home was a safe place—a place where anyone could walk through the door and know they were loved, accepted, and cared for. She welcomed everyone with an open heart and never made anyone feel like a stranger. Her kindness, warmth, and unconditional love were felt by everyone who knew her.

She loved deeply, welcomed freely, and left every person she met feeling a little more loved. Her grace, compassion, and beautiful spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Surviving are her children, Amanda Bray Harris (Chad Ronnie Harris), and Bradley Lee Barbour; and numerous special Bray and Blackard cousins.

Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, September 7, 2026, at Norris Funeral Services, Martinsville Chapel with Christi Boaz Taylor officiating. A visitation will be held following the service at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, September 7, 2026, at Norris Funeral Services. Inurnment will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Roselawn Burial Park.

Donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Martinsville, 23 Starling Ave, Martinsville, VA 24112.

Norris Funeral Services Martinsville Chapel is handling the arrangements for the Barbour family.