Barbara Jo (Patterson) Wallis

Barbara Jo (Patterson) Wallis (also known as Barb, Barbie Jo and Gram) passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025, at her home at the age of 86.

She was born on May 12, 1938, to Fred and Pauline (McGregor) Patterson. Barbara was a lifelong resident of Marietta, OH and a graduate of Marietta High School where she was a cheerleader. She loved the beach, reading, Reese’s cups, and spending time with family.

On August 4, 1961, she united in marriage with Clive “Zeke” Wallis and together they raised a family centered on love, family and faith. She and Zeke provided us all with lots of laughter and memories. She was a devoted mother to her three children Steven (deceased), Terry, and Pam (Steve) Brooker. She is survived by her sister Susie (Larry) Fouss and niece Jill Fouss and Family and nephew Jay (Laura) Fouss and Family and Marilyn (David) Fraser and David (Faye) Wallis and their families and several cousins.

She retired from Harmar Elementary School in 1989, where she worked as a secretary and was lovingly known by the students as the “Bandaide Lady”. She enjoyed all of the students and treasured each and every one of the Christmas ornaments she received from them. She was well respected by her fellow employees and teaching staff and she cherished all the great memories of her Harmar days.

Her greatest joy was her grandchildren, Allie Wallis, Megan (Patrick) Harris and Morgan Wallis, Kelsey (Brett) Wharff, and Caden Brooker, all brought her great happiness and pride. She babysat all five of them together and to them she was Gram and Grammie and was the proud ringmaster of “Gram’s circus”. She let it be known to them that she was a professional wrestler, piano player, and a championship checkers player (they believed her). Gram never missed any event her grandkids were involved in and made sure she sang them the “Confidence” song before each event. Gram was very happy to become Great Gram to Brooks Mikhael Wharff. Every visit included a hug and a Twinkie. She will be watching in heaven as her new great granddaughter will arrive in March.

She was a member of First Baptist Church, Marietta, and the Singles and Doubles Sunday School Class as well as the Baptist Women’s Organization. She also had been an active member of the Jayceettes, Red Hats, PTA’s and Tuesday morning Women’s Bowling League.

At her request there will be no funeral service. A Celebration of Life event will be held in the spring.

The family would like to give thanks to the Marietta first responders, both fire and police, for their quick action and compassionate handling of her passing.

In Barb’s memory, please share a random act of kindness and enjoy a Reese cup or two!

The MARIETTA CHAPEL OF CAWLEY & PEOPLES FUNERAL HOME is honored to serve Barb’s family, and offers online condolences by visiting their website, www.CawleyandPeoples.com or by following their Facebook page.