Barbara Ruth Gross

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barbara Ruth Thackston Gross, who left us peacefully on February 24, 2026. Born on June 29, 1946, in Greenville, South Carolina, Barbara lived a remarkable life, filled with love, adventure, and a deep-seated commitment to her family and faith.

Before returning to her Southern roots, Barbara lived most of her life in New York where she became an unwavering Yankees fan. She was a devoted fan of the Arts and loved the theater. She adored flowers and spent countless hours planting and nurturing her gardens. Traveling also brought her great joy, as did her love for classic Westerns and the Home Shopping Network. Always thoughtful, she often dedicated her time to sending thoughtful greeting cards to family and friends, ensuring that those in her life always felt cherished.

Barbara's faith was a beacon that guided her throughout her life, and she was a longstanding member of Earle Street Baptist Church.

She is survived by her beloved cousin, Kimberly Harden Blume, as well as her nephew, Jason McMullan. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl Richard Thackston and Ruth Bryson Thackston, and her dear sister, Elizabeth "Betty" McMullan.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Barbara's life on March 2, 2026, at Earle Street Baptist Church, where she spent so many joyful moments. The visitation will begin at 9:15 a.m. followed by the funeral service at 10:00 a.m. Barbara will then be laid to rest in Woodlawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Gentiva Hospice of Greenville or Earle Street Baptist Church.

Barbara will be most remembered for her love, kindness, and the joy she brought into the lives of all who knew her. May her spirit live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories of Barbara with the family by clicking on either the "Share a Memory" footer or the word "Tributes" in the dropdown menu.