Barbara Jones

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Dr. Barbara Jones, a beloved wife, mother, educator, and friend, on May 25, 2026, at her home. She was 82 years old. Born on June 22, 1943, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Barbara was the cherished daughter of the late Charles and Bonnie Cothren. She is predeceased by her parents but leaves a legacy of love and dedication that will be cherished by her family and community. Barbara's life was a testament to the power of education and nurturing. She graduated from Istrouma High School in 1961 and went on to earn her bachelor's degree from Louisiana State University. Her passion for learning and teaching led her to obtain a Doctorate from Delta State University, which she used to inspire and educate countless young minds over her 30-year career as a teacher and principal. Barbara married Dalton, her beloved husband and best friend, with whom she shared over 40 years of love and partnership. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Wade Caston and Kellie Mestayer, who were her pride and joy. Upon retirement, Barbara and Dalton fulfilled their dream of building a home in the countryside, where she could indulge her love for gardening and birdwatching. Her gardens were a vibrant tapestry of colors, and her love for flowers was well-known among family and friends. She delighted in the simple joys of tending to her vegetable garden and watching the birds that visited her yard, sharing her love for nature with all who visited. Barbara was a beacon of warmth and kindness, whose life was a living example of dedication to family, community, and education. Her impact as an educator was profound, and her legacy will continue through the lives of her students and the love she instilled in her family. A service to celebrate Barbara's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her name to a charity supporting education or nature conservation, causes that were close to her heart. Barbara's family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to everyone who has offered support and shared memories of a woman whose life was dedicated to helping others grow and flourish. She will be dearly missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.