Barbara Lee Grissom's Obituary
Barbara L. Grissom, 87, of Tallahassee, went home to be with the Lord on August 1, 2021 after suffering a breakthrough infection of Covid-19. Barbara was born in Washington, D.C. on October 20, 1933 and moved to Tallahassee with her family from Virginia in 1960. She was united in marriage to William F. “Bill” Grissom who preceded her in death in 1977. Preceding her also were husband Rufus K. Latimer in 1997; mother Ruth Duffy; father Joseph Taylor; step-father Thomas Duffy; brothers Joseph Taylor, Jr., Charles Taylor, and Thomas “Eddie” Duffy, Jr.
Barbara was a retired employee of the Florida Highway Patrol and Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she was of the Christian faith.
She is survived by her son Michael L. Grissom (wife Annette), daughter Donna J. Overfield (husband Jim), daughter Carolyn S. Callahan (husband Phil), all of Tallahassee; grandchildren Will Grissom (wife Katie), Greg Overfield, and Andrew Callahan, of Tallahassee, Holly Grissom (fiancée Verlon Edwards) of Bigfork, Montana; great-grandchildren Celeste Callahan, Taylor Grissom, and Colton Grissom, of Tallahassee; ‘daughter’ chosen out of love Susan Weaver; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Barbara faced challenges early in life and was known for having a strong and determined spirit. Her family was her pride and joy. While raising her children she loved to spend weekends camping, boating, fishing, and serving meals around the campfire. When grandchildren came along, there were endless sleepovers at “Nannie’s house”, with shopping trips, VHS movie rentals, and spoiling of young appetites. Barbara developed a passion for Tole painting in her golden years. Throughout retirement she enjoyed attending paint class, out-of-town shopping with friends, church gatherings, family get-togethers, and visiting her great-grandchildren, who were truly her delight.
Barbara lived life to the fullest. She was an accomplished dancer, roller-skater, tree climber, horseback rider, and connoisseur of classic movies. She leaves cherished memories with all who knew her, and a legacy of love.
Memorial services will be scheduled for a later date. Tributes and expressions of sympathy may be made on the Lifesong Funerals and Cremations website. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Gideons International or Wycliffe Bible Translators.
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