Barbara Austin Turner

Mrs. Barbara Austin Turner, age 88, of Lynchburg, Virginia passed away on Friday, December 30, 2022 after a 10 year, awe-inspiring journey fighting the debilitating effects of Alzheimer’s Disease. She was the daughter of the late David Eugene Austin and Jennie Creasy Austin Flint.

There were many caregivers during Barbara’s years with Alzheimer’s but most recently, when her condition deteriorated rapidly, the dedicated, loving care from Vicki and Alice gave comfort to her family and they will always be grateful.

Barbara was born on January 6, 1934, in Lynchburg. She attended school in Lynchburg, graduating from E. C. Glass High School in 1953. For 40 years she worked at a job she dearly loved with Pathology Consultants of Central Virginia which she affectionately referred to as “The Lab”. She made many long-time friends in the medical community through her daily visits to various doctors’ offices and facilities. She was also a well-known fixture at Pearson’s Drug Store of Lynchburg working part time at the candy counter, pharmacy counter, and at times even behind the fountain making milkshakes.

Barbara was a member of Inglewood Baptist Church. She was a natural artist but never advertised her talent. Her amazing green thumb was evidenced by her beautiful outdoor plantings as well as her indoor potted plants. She was an animal lover and always enjoyed spending time with family pets.

Barbara is survived by her daughters, Kathy Abbott of Lynchburg and Donna Proffitt (Mark) of Forest; sister, Glennie Erb (Gene) of Forest; 3 adored grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and many longtime, loving friends in the community.

In addition to her parents, Barbara is predeceased by her brother, Frederick E. Austin; an infant sister, Juanita; and son-in-law, David Abbott.

A Memorial service will be held on Thursday, January 12, 2023, at 12 p.m. at Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Lynchburg Daily Bread (721 Clay St., Lynchburg, VA 24504) or the Lynchburg Humane Society (1211 Old Graves Mill Rd., Lynchburg, VA 24502).

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg is assisting the family.