Barbara passed away on August 17, 2026, following a long and courageous battle. She was 79 years old. Barbara was born and raised in Macon, Georgia, to the Honorable Hal and Helen Bell. She was a graduate of A. L. Miller Senior High School, Class of 1965, in Macon, Georgia, and Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Alabama. When Barbara married Charles Rivers in 1970, they made their life together in Fayette County, Georgia, where she raised her children and devoted more than 30 years to teaching elementary school. Most of her teaching career was spent at Fayette Elementary, where generations of students became an important part of her life. Barbara often spoke fondly of her colleagues and the many students who made an impact on her life. Teaching was more than a career to Barbara—it was a calling. She cared deeply for her students and carried memories of them with her throughout the years. When Barbara wasn’t at school or grading papers, she could often be found in the barn with her beloved Arabian show horses. For many years, she proudly showed them in Western Pleasure. Her love for animals was a defining part of who she was. She had an especially soft spot for animals in need and rescues, and her compassion for animals was evident to everyone who knew her. After retiring from teaching and losing her husband, Barbara moved to Barnesville, Georgia, where she enjoyed the peace and beauty of her property. Barbara also had a special love for bringing children to Christ and was…
*This content (including text, artwork, graphics, photography, and video) was provided by the third party(ies) as referenced above. Any rights or other content questions or inquiries should be directed to such third-party provider(s).
