Barbara Jean Grear

Barbara Jean Grear, age 96, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2018. Born in Chicago Illinois to John Dewey Lutes and Helen Mar Felz, she was the oldest of six children. She attended Lake Forest College in Chicago and later worked as a phlebotomist for the VA in Washington D.C. and also at University Hospital in Augusta, Georgia. She married Jesse William “Billy” Grear, Jr. in Augusta in 1952 and had four children. Barbara was an avid reader and also enjoyed art and writing. A friend to many, Barbara led life with her heart. She is survived by daughter Donna Byers of Evans; son Jesse Grear, III and his wife, Debra, of Fairhope, Alabama; son Philip Grear and his wife, Lisa, of Naples, Florida; daughter Lee Libro and her husband, Rick, of Lakewood Ranch, Florida; 13 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and her brother, Dr. Chris Lutes of Pownall, Maine. In the spring, her life will be celebrated with a private family service held amongst the azaleas and magnolia trees, the elements of the south that first captivated her and prompted her to make it her home. The family would like to thank everyone for their condolences and express their gratitude to the staff at Windermere Golden Living Center and to Regency Hospice.