Barbara Hutson

Barbara G. Hutson, age 75 of Deer Lodge community, passed away on July 2, 2025 at her home in Deer Lodge, TN, following a lengthy battle with dementia. Born on May 16, 1950, in Scott County, TN. Barbara’s zest for life and unbridled spirit were evident from her earliest days.

Barbara’s life was marked by a series of pioneering achievements. She made history as the first female UPS delivery driver in Nashville, TN, shattering glass ceilings and setting a precedent for women in the workforce. Later, she played a crucial role in improving the efficiency of Tennessee’s transportation system by becoming one of the first civilians hired to administer drivers test, freeing state troopers from their desks and getting them back out in the field. Barbara’s commitment to public service did not end there; she concluded her professional career with a tenure in security at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), where she served diligently until enjoying her retirement.

Barbara’s passion for life extended beyond her professional endeavors. She grew up with a love for horses and at a young age was already a talented horse rider, which was a gift she later passed on to her daughter and the two of them could often be seen competing in local shows on her beloved horse, Moonshine.

An adventurous soul, Barbara loved to travel and explore the great outdoors. She had a special fondness for revisiting the old roads and homesteads of her youth reminiscing about her childhood and the precious time spent with her father who was her hero and her best friend.

Barbara is preceded in death by her husband Perry Hutson; parents Will and Gladys Goad and her brothers Jack and Bernard Goad.

She is survived by her sister Betty Weber and husband Jim of Mt. Juliet, TN.; brother Billie Joe Goad and wife Maddie of White Oak, TN.; daughter Alexis Goad of Deer Lodge; son William Wilkinson also of Deer Lodge who in a profound act of love and devotion served as Barbara’s primary caretaker during her final years, despite the challenges of her changing behavior, ensuring she was able to remain in the comfort of her own home a place she may have forgotten but was always safe in. Barbara is also survived by her faithful little dog Itsy, who remained by her side day and night, till the end.

Barbara was a woman who lived life on her own terms, with a spirit that was unbreakable and a mind that was as sharp as a tack-until it wasn’t. To say Barbara was spirited is an understatement. She was a whirlwind and a force to be reckoned with. Dementia may have clouded her memories, but it never dimmed the light of her soul. She faced the disease with the same courage she brought to every aspect of her life.

In lieu of a traditional funeral, the family will be holding a memorial service at Schubert Funeral Home at a later date. Details will be announced once arrangements are finalized.

Instead of flowers the family ask that you honor Barbara’s memory by showing kindness to others and taking time to be with those you love. May her soul find peace and her spirit be free from suffering.

Schubert Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Barbara G. Hutson.