Barbara (Hunter Blackwell Smith) Ingraham passed away surrounded by loved ones at her home in Denton, Texas, on Wednesday, May 24, 2023.

Born in Paris, Texas, on October 12, 1937, Barbara studied nursing at Prairie View A&M University before working at Flow Memorial Hospital. She had a strong mindset and pursued a variety of career opportunities: she worked as the manager of Dreamland Apartments, where she organized breakfast programs and activities for children during the summer months; ran for city council; created jobs as the owner of Buzy Bee Messaging Center; and helped the community as a case manager at FEMA–a natural fit for such a force of nature. After retiring, Barbara volunteered at Habitat for Humanity Ruth's Room and served on the executive board of directors at Hearts for Homes Denton.

Barbara enjoyed cooking, entertaining, and spending time with family. She had a deep love for children, and all those she spent time with would be introduced as "my son" or "my daughter" (no one could really get an exact count of all the children she claimed, but all were hers). Strong, determined, and loved by many, Barbara never met a stranger, opening her heart and home to others, especially those in need. She had a servant's heart and was a faithful member of Justin Church of Christ.

Barbara is survived by her children Blynn Blackwell, Burnyte Garland (husband Harry), Barry Blackwell (wife Paula), and Barbara Sotella Smith; grandchildren BJ Scott (wife Andrea), Morgan Hamric (husband Casey), Ian Blackwell, and Audrey Loeser (husband Derek); and 3 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by many "adopted" children, including Cathy Stanley and Lisbeth Frysinger, who were often by her side during her two-month hospitalization, as well as Shelly Blackburn, Tarra Blanton, Johnny Sylvera, and a host of other "sons and daughters." It will be a long time before there will be another Barbara Jean–as the neighborhood grandmother, she will truly be missed.

A memorial service for Barbara will be held at DeBerry Funeral Home in Denton on Thursday, June 1, at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Hearts for Homes Denton in memory of Barbara Ingraham.