Barbara "Kay" Barefield

Barbara Kay Barefield, lovingly known to most as “Momma Kay,” entered her heavenly home with Jesus on August 27, 2025, at TriStar Centennial Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, surrounded by her family she so dearly loved.

Born on July 20, 1945, to R.W. “Dub” and Lucille Morris, Kay grew up in the Ellard community on a small family farm. She graduated from Bruce High School in 1963 and soon after moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where she began her lifelong career in banking. A few years later, she returned home to Calhoun County to work at what was then the Bank of Bruce. For over 47 years, she faithfully served her community there, always greeting friends and neighbors with a smile.

In November of 1971, after a long and sweet courtship, Kay slipped off to go "shoe shopping" on Friday after Thanksgiving, and eloped with the love of her life, D.R. Barefield. Together they built a home in Bruce and raised two children, Jason and Demeka.  She loved both her children fiercely and unconditionally and was so proud of them both.   Kay poured her heart into her roles as a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend.

Her greatest joy, however, came from being “Momma Kay” to her grandchildren—Lucy, Greyson, Sullie, and Samantha. They were her pride and delight, and she lived every day ready to be at their beck and call. Whether cheering them on, spoiling them with love, or simply being present, Momma Kay’s life was defined by the joy she found in her family.

Kay’s legacy is one of faith, love, and selfless devotion. She will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her deep roots in her community, and her quiet strength.

She is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, D.R. Barefield; her children, Jason (Jessica) Barefield and Demeka  (Jason) Church; her precious grandchildren, Lucy and Sullie Grace Barefield and Greyson and Samantha Lucille Church; and many precious nieces and nephews.  Kay is preceded in death by her siblings, Alma Paulette Norris,  Nannie Pearl Cottingham, Wiley Don Morris and her parents, R.W. “Dub” and Lucille Morris.

Visitation will be Friday, August 29 at Parker Memorial Funeral Home in Bruce from 6:00P.M. to 8:00P.M.  Funeral services will be held at Old Field Methodist Church Saturday, August 30, at 11:00 A.M. with her pastor, Bro. Craig McCormick officiating Pallbearers will be Ethan Davis, Todd Morris, Jason Church, Greyson Church, Ronnie Norris, and David Sullivan. Honorary Pallbearers are Kenny Cottingham, George Edward Liles and Benny Stewart. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Old Field Methodist Benevolent Fund, C/O Phyllis Stewart, 169 CR 260, Bruce, MS 38915.

Above all, Kay’s life was a testimony of love—love for her Savior, her family, and her community. Proverbs 31:28-29, Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her; "Many women do noble things, you surpass them all". Though she will be missed beyond measure, her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched.

Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Barefield family during this difficult season of life.