Barbara Davis Herring

Barbara D. Herring, 90, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025, with her daughter-in-law by her side. Born on November 8, 1934, Barbara lived a life centered around her deep love for family and dedication to caring for others.

Barbara was a Licensed Practical Nurse who devoted her professional life to providing compassionate care to patients and their families. Her nursing career was a reflection of her natural nurturing spirit and desire to help others during their most vulnerable moments.

Family was at the heart of everything Barbara did. She lovingly raised her children, providing them with constant love and support throughout their lives. Her grandsons and great-grandson held a special place in her heart and brought her joy. Barbara's home was a gathering place where the sounds of laughter filled the rooms and the smell of her cooking drew everyone to the kitchen table. She enjoyed cooking her family their favorite birthday meals and created feasts during Thanksgiving that had everyone "packing it in".

Barbara maintained strong family bonds throughout her life. She was known for her quick wit and ability to bring people together. She loved telling stories about the past, sometimes not getting through them for laughing. Barbara had a special gift for making everyone feel welcomed and loved, whether they were family members or friends who became like family.

Although she wasn't physically able to attend church, Barbara was a woman of faith. She found great joy in life's simple pleasures. In early years, she loved spending time fishing at the beach, casting her line and enjoying the peaceful rhythm of the waves. Until the end, she was a devoted Carolina basketball fan and never missed a chance to cheer on her team. Barbara also enjoyed working on word searches, finding satisfaction in the quiet challenge they provided. Above all, Barbara treasured family gatherings during every holiday, creating cherished memories and traditions that brought everyone together around her table.

Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, June Sydney and Maggie Walston Davis; sisters, Nell Mooring, Annette Davis, and Frances Rose; brother, Ralph Davis; and 3 sons, Jeff Godwin, Scott Hayes, and Spencer Hayes.

She is survived by her sister, June Godwin (and Dan); daughter-in-law, Sonja Hayes; grandson, Eric Hayes (and Tiara); great-grandson, Tanner; daughter, Kimberly Hayes; and grandson, Brenner Cobb as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Barbara's legacy lives on in the values she instilled in her family: the importance of kindness, the strength found in togetherness, and the joy discovered in life's simple pleasures. Her memory will be treasured by all who knew and loved her.

Because of her love for her 3 sons who preceded her in death, in lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to ALS.org, membership.ncsheriffs.org/donate, and als.org.

A graveside gathering will be in Maplewood Cemetery on Sunday, 9/21/25 at 1 p.m. with Wayne Whitley officiating.

Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.