Barbara Kays Fisher
Barbara Ann Kays Fisher, age 95, passed away on September 4, 2026, at Roanoke Memorial Hospital following failing health since February. She was predeceased by her parents, Annie and Kenny Kays of Warrenton, Virginia, and her brother, William “Pop” Kays of Ashburn, Virginia. She is survived by her daughter, Nancy Chewning and her husband Tim of Roanoke, two grandsons and their wives, Christopher and Elysia Chewning of Brambleton, and Tyler and Candy Chewning and her great grandson Levi of Vinton. She is also survived by her niece Amy Holt and her husband Dave, her nephew Todd Kays and his wife Sue, her niece Susan Thews and her husband Marvin, her nephew Paul Gordon, many great nieces and nephews, and her son in law’s family, Bobby, Tracy, Tom and Robin Chewning.
Barbara graduated from Warrenton High School in 1947. She went to work for a local dentist, Dr. William Hodgkin, as a secretary, bookkeeper and chair side assistant. She also worked for Dr. Hodgkin’s brother, nephew and Dr. Robert Anderson. In 1950, she married Carter Fisher, a neighbor and World War II veteran. Following Dr. Hodgkin’s death, Barbara worked for a group of general practitioners, Drs. Dellinger, Iden, Denton and Morris. She then accepted a position in the Fauquier County Treasurer’s office. When the treasurer retired, she was appointed as Acting Treasurer becoming the first woman to hold this position. Upon retiring, she and Carter moved to Roanoke to spend time with their grandsons.
Barbara loved to read, to do yard work and to do crossword puzzles. She always saw the good in everyone and put others before herself. She was a dedicated member of Bonsack Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Bonsack Baptist Church, 4845 Cloverdale Road, Roanoke, Virginia, 24019.
Visitation will be on September 9, 2026, from 4-6 PM at Simpson Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held on September 10, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Bonsack Baptist Church. Graveside services will be held in Warrenton, Virginia, later in September. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home Peters Creek Chapel. (540)366-0707.
