Barabara Bennett Villarreal, wife, mother, stepmother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and beloved friend of many, quickly passed away at the age of 78 on Tuesday, February 18, 2025. She is survived by her loving husband of 17 years, Refugio 'Rufus' J. Villarreal; loving children Allan Howze (Darren DeMatoff) of Chicago and SherrySparks of Crossville; beloved sister Faye Burrell (Fred); grandson Harley Gilbert (Molly) and great-grandchildren Marley and Jonathan of Greenwood, MS. She is preceded in death by her cherished brother Billy Mitchell, father Ado Bennett,stepmother Mary Lou Bennett, mother Viola Orsborn Bennett, and numerous family members around Winona, MS. Love was the central theme to Barbara's life.

Her love of nature energized her. Spending the day working in her garden,visiting a nearby waterfall, or admiring a state park made her equally happy. If the weather allowed and she was outside(and many times inside), she would be waving to her many friends as they drove by. Her love of people and her deep friendships created profound community that brought joy and laughter to those in her universe. Her impact was felt everywhere she went, extending far beyond Tennessee. Her love of the bible and inspirational passages guided her and were spread to everyone she touched. Her absence leaves a void in this world, but her legacy will continue for many lifetimes.

Barabara was cremated on February 21, 2025. Her ashes will be mixed with her loving husband's ashes and spread upon the beautiful landscape of the Tennessee mountains in the future.

Memorial Services will be held at Cumberland Mountain State Park on Saturday May 3, 2025 at 1:00 PM.