Barbara Ann Counts

1946 - 2022

Barbara Ann Counts
February 24, 1946 - October 5, 2022
Florence, South Carolina - It is with profound sadness that on Wednesday October 5th, Barbara Ann Counts, a beloved wife, sister, friend and mother, passed away. She was born in Florence SC, to the late Mildred and Johnny Cooke. She is predeceased by her daughter Gillian Plasman and brother Michael Cooke. Barbara graduated from McClenaghan High School then pursued her love for dance, studying with The Carolina Ballet in Columbia, SC. A founding member and Ballet Mistress for the first civic ballet company in Florence, established in 1969, Barbara brought ballet to the area. It was her dream to establish a performing company in her hometown, to provide more opportunities for young dancers. Over 30 years, she influenced countless young people in positive ways to dream, to pursue their goals, and to achieve their highest potential. Barbara was Artistic Director of the South Carolina Dance Theatre from its inception until 1995, as well as serving on the SC Arts Commission, the Arts Alive Committee, and the SC Dance Association. In 1995, Barbara met the love of her life, Layton Shepherd Counts, and the two followed their hearts to Pawleys Island where they built a beautiful home, eventually moving back to Florence in 2005. They have been active members of ChristPoint Church in Florence, and All Saints Anglican Church in Pawleys Island, SC. Surviving are Barbara's husband Layton, daughter Erin (Michael), son-in-law Paul, step-daughters Lauren and Elizabeth, and four grandchildren Owen, Greer, Gracen and Layla, brother, Roger Cooke and sister, Suzanne Tudor. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, October 8th, 2022 at All Saints Anglican Church, Pawleys Island (in the old church), with burial to follow at All Saints Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the All Saints Cemetery fund. Cain Calcutt Funeral Home has been honored to serve the Counts family.