Dolores “Dody” Barham
Dolores “Dody” Barham, Chattanooga TN, born on March 19, 1930, in Guild TN to John Henry and Velda Reeves. Married to John W. Barham and Mother of David and Cathy.
Her passing came unexpectedly with loved ones by her side. In a manner as rare and magnificent as the life she led. On October, Friday the 13th, 2023, after 93 years, on the dawn of the astrological event, “The Ring of Fire”, Dody left with God speed to be reunited with the loves of her life, husband John W Barham and son, David Barham. Proceeded by her parents and ten siblings Dorothy, Lora, Percy, Pauline, Opal, Katherine, Thelma, Joyce, AJ, and Joe.
Though her passing was quick, her life long and full, and the knowledge of such a beautiful reunion shared, she is grieved and celebrated by those she leaves behind. Daughter, Cathy Barham, daughter in law Scarlett Montessi (Chris), grandchildren, Oliver Landry (Valerie), Sarah Landry, Lauren West (Patrick), Robb Barham, and Brett Barham. Great-Grandchildren: Lennon Landry, Dylan Landry, Rowan West, Bennett West. Adopted children, Nancy Williams, Ellen Smith, Chris Montessi, Joan and Randy Carroll and adopted Grandchildren Madison and Dan Carroll, Holcomb and Ritter as well as many other nieces and nephews, relatives and friends that she cherished greatly.
A graduate of Chattanooga City High, Dolores earned her degree in social work from CSTCC in 1986. She was a retiree of UNUM Provident.
She was a very active member for 70+ years to her much beloved Red Bank Baptist Church, an important part of her life. There she shared her love of music and singing as a member of the church choir and later, The Prime Time Singers.
Dody had an energy and a fearless passion for life and embraced every day with a positive vigor.
She volunteered her time in the community in many ways. As demonstrated by her 20+ years involvement with the United Way’s Chattanooga Partnership for families and adults, Plays For Living, 17 years of volunteering at the Dogwood Shop, reading to the children at Little Miss Mag Day Care, her 15 year commitment to the ladies at Wellington/ Brook home, where she could be found painting nails, playing cards or just visiting with many of the residents.
She also contributed in various ways to organizations including the Fairfax Heights Garden Club, Erlanger Grey Ladies, Salvation Army, Easter Seals, The Shriners, the Special Olympics, WWII Fund, Wounded Warriors, Autism Awareness, and countless others.
When she wasn’t volunteering or singing, she was doing what she treasured most, spending time with family and friends. She loved traveling and was always eager for opportunities to experience the world. She enjoyed dining out and attending the theaters. And, in her “down time” she amazed us with her uncanny creativity and abilities that she used in art works, baking, painting, décor and the occasional remodeling. She also found happiness in her yard where she gracefully attended to her amazing flowers, plants, and trees, which she also had a gift for.
If you knew Dody, you knew a lady that colored outside of the lines, found strength in caring for others and always made sure that you weren’t hungry and that you had enough to eat.
In her last few years, she often expressed her love and appreciation for her granddaughter Sarah who helped keep things organized and delicious.
Graveside Services will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 31, at 2:30 p.m. at the Chattanooga National Cemetery.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 1-2 p.m. at the funeral home.
As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to the Chattanooga Area Foodbank, 2009 Curtain Pole Road 37406.
Arrangements entrusted to Lane Funeral Home on Ashland Terrace, www.Lanefh.com, 423 877-3524.