Barbara Joan Alley

Barbara Joan Tarlton Alley, 87, of Raleigh, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on December 16, 2025.

Barbara was born in Raleigh at Mary Elizabeth Hospital on July 29, 1938, to the late Pearl Garner Tarlton and Royal William Tarlton. She graduated from Needham Broughton High School in 1956 and, on December 26, 1959, married the love of her life, James Wallace Alley.

Shortly thereafter, they moved to El Paso, Texas, where Wallace was stationed in the U.S.Army-beginning a marriage marked by devotion, partnership, and deep love.

She is survived by her husband of nearly 66 years, Wallace Alley; her daughters, Valerie Richardson (James) and Jamie Heath (Jeff); and her beloved grandchildren, Dylan and Cassidy Richardson, and Clayton Heath, all of whom knew her as their cherished "Deedee."

She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Frank Alley (wife Betty, deceased); her niece and nephew, Cindy Wagner (David) and Jeff Alley (Myrna); and her great-nieces and great-nephews, including the late Cameron Wagner, Grant Wagner (Haley) and children, Caroline Reed (Dan) and children, Dane Alley, and Reece Alley (Tamsin) and child.

Barbara lived a full and joyful life. Despite living with chronic pain for more than 20 years, she never complained and was always smiling. She touched countless lives through her warmth, faith, and friendship.

She was a devoted member of her Bridge Club for more than 60 years and deeply treasured those dear friends, who played their final game together just days before her passing.

Professionally, Barbara enjoyed a 40-year career in mortgage banking, serving as executive assistant to Claude E. Pope at Cameron-Brown, AMIC, and later with the State of North Carolina while Mr. Pope served as Secretary of Commerce.

Her faith was central to her life. Barbara was a core leader in Community Bible Study and a faithful participant for 30 years. At Tabernacle Baptist Church she sang alto in the choir and served her church with humility and joy. She was known for her beautiful voice and her wonderful sense of humor-quick to laugh, fond of a good joke, and always gracious.

Above all, Barbara lived for her family and friends. Her love, kindness, and unwavering faith leave a legacy that will live on in the many lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers please make memorial donations to Tabernacle Baptist Church located at 8304 Leesville Road, Raleigh, NC 27613.