Barbara Rose May

Barbara Rose Ryan May passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025.

Barbara was born May 14, 1938, in her Grandma Raley's home in Marion County, the first of ten children of Red and Rosella Ryan. Growing up in a large Irish Catholic family, she learned early the values of faith, hard work, responsibility, and caring for others-lessons that shaped every chapter of her life.

She met her husband, D.C. May, through her uncle near Gravel Switch, and the two married in 1960. Together, they raised five children on their farm in Lebanon, where Barbara taught her family-by example-the importance of kindness, service, resilience, and a strong work ethic. One of her children preceded her in death, as did her beloved husband of nearly 50 years.

In her early years, Barbara worked alongside D.C. on the farm, served as a Stanley and Home Interior dealer, and drove a school bus for Marion County Schools. She was deeply involved in the community through the Lions Club and the Marion County Cattlemen's Association. Most notably, she served on the Marion County Water Board for more than 35 years, playing an instrumental role in securing access to clean water for families across Bradfordsville and the wider county-an effort that earned her the Marion County Outstanding Citizen of the Year Award in 2018.

A devoted member of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Barbara served as lector, participated in Homebound Ministry, and supported countless school, parish, and community events.

Never one to stop growing or giving, Barbara returned to school in the late 1970s to earn her nursing degree. She went on to spend more than 30 years at Spring View Hospital in roles including med-surg, OB, and surgery prep and recovery. Her work in labor and delivery became one of the great callings of her life. Countless families shared stories of her steady hands and compassionate care-many saying, "Your grandma helped deliver me." She earned both the Daisy Award and Mercy Award for exceptional patient care and continued volunteering at the hospital even after retiring in 2013.

Barbara's generosity extended far beyond her professional life. She quietly helped families in need, visited patients without loved ones, ensured children had Christmas gifts, and offered support through countless small, unseen acts of kindness. She never sought recognition; she simply saw a need and met it.

To her family, she was Mom and Memaw-the heart of every gathering. Her home was always open, filled with laughter, stories, and summers spent around the pool. She lived life fully, with a fiery spirit, quick wit, and the social energy of someone "25 at heart." Later in life, she met her dear friend and companion, Bill Durham, with whom she enjoyed visiting, traveling, and dancing at charity events. His presence brought her great joy and companionship in her later years.

Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, Red and Rosella Ryan; her loving husband, D.C. May Jr.; her daughter, Mary Joyce Blandford; siblings Mike Ryan and Phyllis Bowling; and her cherished friend and companion, Bill Durham.

As the matriarch of the Ryan and May families, she leaves behind a large and loving family, including her children Dennis (Cheryl) May, Cynthia (Roger) Barlow, David May, Andy (Tammy) May, and Jim "Moe" Blandford; 17 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; siblings Bill (Karolyn) Ryan, Joe (Mamie) Ryan, Eddie Ryan, Mary Jane Ryan, Helen (Walter) Kindler, Steve (Pam) Ryan, and Vicki Kupper; and many extended family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Visitation will be held at Bosley Funeral Home on December 23 from 3-8 p.m. with a prayer service to be held at 7:00 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Augustine Catholic Church on December 24 at 11:00 a.m. with burial to follow in St. Augustine Cemetery.

Barbara lived a life defined by faith, love, service, and generosity. Her impact will continue in every life she touched.

In honor of Barbara's wishes, the family asks that in lieu of gifts to the funeral home, you honor her memory with an act of kindness or by sending flowers to a loved one, neighbor, friend, or nursing home resident. If you wish, share a photo of your gesture on Facebook and tag Barbara in her remembrance. "Bring My Flowers Now," her favorite song, will be played at the funeral in tribute to her belief in showing love today.

Bosley Funeral Home and Mattingly Funeral Home are in charge of arrangements.

To send a flower arrangement in memory of Barbara Rose May, please click here to visit our sympathy store.