Barbara Lee Williams

Barbara L. Williams, 88, of Carmel, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 2, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was a woman of unshakable faith and deep compassion, whose life was defined by her readiness to help and be there for others. Barbara was born on January 13, 1937, in Indianapolis to the late William W. Totman and Reverend Denzil B. Totman, who founded Lighthouse Tabernacle in 1950.

Barbara's family and friends were her greatest joy, and she dedicated her life to nurturing and creating lasting memories with them. She fondly recalled her childhood, especially the blessing of having her aunts and uncles live next door, graduating from Broad Ripple High School, and attending church camp where she met life-long friends. Carrying this value into adulthood, she imparted the importance of family to her children and grandchildren. She ensured memories were made and kept by taking countless photographs, scrapbooking, embarking on RV adventures with her husband and grandchildren, and simply enjoying many happy afternoons by the pool. She believed the greatest gift we could give each other was time.

Barbara's deep devotion extended to her church and her calling to teach. In 1974, she became the founding director of Tabernacle Christian Academy (TCA), which opened as part of Lighthouse Tabernacle. For 25 years, Barbara guided the academy's growth, serving as an important mentor whose influence is still felt today by countless former students and teachers. Later, Barbara transitioned to a successful role as an agent for FC Tucker, where she worked until her retirement in 2013. In her quieter moments, Barbara enjoyed reading and gardening.

Barbara was the widow of Richard A. "Dick" Williams, with whom she was married for 58 years. She is survived by her sons, Richard A. "Rick" (Mary Lou) and Michael R. "Mike" (Susan) Williams; grandchildren, Lauren (Matthew) Reinholt, Melissa (Alex) Eggleston, Joshua Williams, Adam Williams, Rylee Williams, Jordan Williams, Cameron Williams, Jackson (fiancée, Leda) Williams, Logan (fiancée, Marcelle) Williams; step-grandchildren, Emma (Noah) Sweet, Elizabeth Roberts, Chris Roberts, LB Merritt, and Brooke (Hiko) Eskidjian; great-grandchildren, Emelia, Beckett, Avery, Reese, Landon, and Lucas, and step-great-grandchild, Elijah. She was preceded in death by her son, Danny (Pam) Williams, and grandson, Richy Williams.

A viewing will be held Monday, November 10, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Flanner and Buchanan Funeral Center - Carmel. A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Flanner and Buchanan Funeral Center – Carmel, 325 E. Carmel Drive. The committal will take place immediately after the Memorial Service at Our Lady of Peace Cemetery at 9001 Haverstick Road, Indianapolis, IN 46240. Family and friends are invited to meet at the Williams' family home – 10670 Highland Drive, Carmel, IN 46280, after the service for fellowship.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association listed below.