Barbara McGlothin Obituary
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Shackelford Funeral Directors of Savannah website to view the full obituary.
Barbara Diane McGlothin, 78, of Savannah, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, her hand held tenderly in theirs. She was preceded in death by her beloved firstborn son, William Len Goble- "Len"-whom she cherished deeply. She often spoke of the day she would reunite with him in heaven, and we find comfort knowing they are together again.
Born on January 1, 1947, in Rutherford, North Carolina, Diane lived a life marked by kindness, grace, and unwavering devotion to her family. She had a rare gift for making everyone feel seen, loved, and cared for. Her heart was generous, her spirit resilient, and her laughter unforgettable. She could light up a room with her stories and had a sense of humor that made even ordinary moments feel special.
Diane had a sweet tooth and a particular fondness for coconut cake. She loved exploring Savannah's many restaurants, often sending her daughters on reconnaissance missions to call around and report the lunch specials. Her memory was astonishing-she could recall names, dates, and details with vivid clarity, and her family often leaned on her to fill in the blanks of their own recollections.
She was a fighter in every sense of the word. Her battle was long and difficult, but she faced each day with courage and determination. Even when her body grew tired, her spirit remained fierce. She was our gladiator.
Diane is survived by her children: Alechia McGlothin of the home, Terri Tillman of South Carolina, and Tommy Tillman of Memphis, Tennessee. She also leaves behind her siblings: Calvin Goble (Sheila), Wanda Morrison, and Tonya Adler (Larry).
Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren: Michael Hinton, Gayden Goble, Blade Tillman, Tesla Tillman, Felicia Tillman, and Kristin Tillman. She adored her six great-grandchildren: Johnny, Gabby, Braelynn, Greyson, Lainey, and Addilyn Diane Grace-her precious namesake.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and caregivers who showed such compassion and tenderness to our mama: Michael Mutters, Tina Robinson, Jessica Reaves, Ann Williams, Theresa Palmer, and Sheila True. Your kindness meant the world to her-and to us.
To her neighbors and dear friends who became family: thank you for your love, your presence, and your support.
Mama, you are loved beyond measure. We will miss you every single day. Until we see you again, we will carry you in our hearts and cradle you in our memories.
You have your wings now. Fly high, Mama-fly high.
A Celebration of Life service will be held toward the end of September. Friends and family are lovingly invited to attend. Details will be shared via messages and Facebook.
Release Me
When I am gone, release me, let me go. I have so many things to see and do. You must not tie yourself to me with tears. Be happy that we had so many years. I gave you my love, so you can only guess how much you gave to me in happiness. Thank you for the love you each have shown, but now it's time I travel on alone. So, grieve for a while for me if grieve you must, then let your grief be confronted by trust. It's only for a while that we must part, so hold onto the memories within your heart. I won't be far away for life does go on, so if you need me call and I will come. Though you can't see or touch me, I will be near, and if you listen with your heart, you will feel my love around you – soft and clear. And then when you must come this way alone, I'll greet you with a smile and a "Welcome Home".