Barbara Byrd Draper
Barbara Byrd Draper, age 96, of Bassett, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Stanleytown Health & Rehab. She was born on January 10, 1929, to the late Samuel Harden Byrd and Essie Pinkard Byrd. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three sons, Samuel Byrd Draper, Leslie Allen Draper, and William Robert Draper; three brothers, Rev. Earl E. Byrd, Sr., Lloyd Byrd and Herman Byrd; a beloved niece, who was named after her, Barbara Lee “Babs” Jarrett Priddy; and two great-grandchildren, Jerry Lee Draper and Sybil Kaleesi Draper.
Barbara proudly graduated from Bassett High School in 1948. She was a dedicated member of the former Bassett Memorial Methodist Church, where she served faithfully as a Youth Director, choir member, and assistant organist. Barbara also worked for many years in the office of Dr. L.A. Faudree. In addition, she shared her musical talents as the organist for Bassett Funeral Service, offering comfort and solace to grieving families through her heartfelt service.
Barbara is lovingly survived by her son, David Lee Draper; five grandchildren, Leah Tiffany Draper, William Robert Draper, Jr., Carrie Draper Johnson, James Christopher Draper, and Samuel Wilson Draper; and ten great-grandchildren: Marrisa Lynn Bryant, Troy William Draper, Preston Lawrence Draper, Felicity Iris Draper, Piper Aurora Draper, Oliver Isaiah Draper, Cameron David Draper, Noah James Draper, and John Beck Johnson. She is also survived by her sister, Margaret B. Jarrett and sister in law, Merle H Byrd, along with a host of extended family and friends who will cherish her memory.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Bassett Funeral Service Chapel, with Pastor Earl E. Byrd Jr., Pastor Jim Nester, and Troy Draper officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Roselawn Burial Park.
Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.bassettfuneralservice.com.Bassett Funeral Service is serving the Byrd family.
