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Obituary For Ruth Mockabee Barrow
Ruth Louise Mockabee Barrow, age 73, departed this life and entered into eternal rest on Monday, May 26th, 2025, at her home in Washington, DC. She was born on September 21, 1951, in Franklin, KY, to the late Howell “Skeet” Mockabee and Gladys Pauline (Garner) Mockabee.
She was a member of East Oak Grove Baptist Church in Dover, TN. Ruth graduated from Stewart County High School and attended Austin Peay University. Her career began at the Tennessee Valley Authority in Chattanooga, TN, followed by a position as CPAC Director at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. She served in the MRC-East G1 Team and, after retiring in 2022, contracted for MEDCOM organizations, most recently as a Labor/Management Employee Relations Human Resources Specialist in the CHRD since March 2023.
Ruth Barrow dedicated her life to her career, family, and helping others, always seeking to make a positive impact. Known for her bold personality and sharp intellect, Ruth had a remarkable ability to transform any moment into a captivating discussion or memorable story. A true force of nature, she was outspoken, quick-witted, endlessly knowledgeable, and undeniably funny. Her passions included cooking and gardening.
She is survived by her husband, Joseph Barrow; her children, Joseph Barrow Jr (Ryan), Jason Barrow, and Joelle Barrow; her grandchildren, Brianna Barrow, Kaiden Barrow, and Kayla Barrow; her siblings, Mary Gladys Newsom and Howell Eugene Mockabee; and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Ruth was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Edna Sue Mockabee.
Ruth will be deeply missed, and her love and spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.
Service will be held Saturday, June 7 2025
Viewing: 11:00 a.m.
Service: 1:00 p.m.
Greene Funeral Home 814 Franklin Street Alexandria, VA 22314
Interment will be private.
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Delphia Spence-Adeeku planted 5 trees in memory of Ruth Mockabee Barrow . - June 07, 2025
Dawn Aiello sent Heavenly Heights Bouquet for Ruth Mockabee Barrow - June 05, 2025
Ruth was a jewel! Full of charisma, smarts, with a southern drawl. I met Ruth after my sister Elaine G. Malone brought her for a visit. They both met (became best friends) while working at TVA in Chattanooga, TN. My first impression of her: Tall, very skinny with long legs, a mini skirt paired with high heels. Long beautiful hair hanging, a smile that lit the room and humorous demeanor. She have had been our family ever since! Ruth eventually gave me the nickname "Ni**er Charlie " (excuse the term) and even up until then end that's been and will always be my name! Only she call me that! To the family and friends; You have our sincerest condolences! Our prayers are with each of you.
Angeline Taylor("NC") & Family
Ruth- You had an extraordinary gift for making everyone feel seen, heard, and supported. Whether it was a simple check-in or a comforting word, you always went out of your way to ensure we were okay. Your compassion and warmth created a sense of community that will be deeply missed. I will miss you but know you are still checking up on us from heaven! My condolences to your family.
I have known Ms. Barrow since I was five years old. She wasn't just a mom to my best friend, but my bonus mother as well. Always so welcoming, so loving and so supportive- her care for me and my children will never be forgotten. She will live in my heart forever. Sending love and condolences to the Barrow family in this time of loss. We love you all and pray for your strength and healing.
I met Ruth in Chattanooga Tennessee and we became roommates living at the YMCA for working women and college students. She worked for TVA and I was working at South Central Bell telephone company. We became really good friends. I lost contact with her after she and Joe got married and they moved away from Chattanooga. We recently reconnected after several years. Her kindness and thoughtfulness will never be forgotten. With her generosity, she lifted spirits and made people smiles appear. Now it's her time to smile. Thanks for being my friend.
Joseph and family, our deepest condolences on behalf of the U.S. Army Medical Command Civilian Human Resources Team.
Ruth served her country selflessly for decades, doing double and triple overtime as she came out of retirement to take several different tough jobs when the Army needed her to support our Soldiers, Civilians, and Family Members.
Ruth saw and did it all during her extraordinary career, but she always remained humble and ready to help others. Serving is what she did best. She was the complete professional and an example to all of us who looked up to her, a rockstar in our community. Ruth had a strong sense of duty, never-ending source of energy, and a great sense of humor. She always gave us her best effort in everything she touched, which always surpassed expectations. Ruth successfully handled some of our command's toughest personnel issues that had life-changing implications on our employees. In one notable instance, even though Ruth was personally affected by the reduction effort she was leading, she first took care of other employees before thinking about herself.
Please know that Ruth was very special to us and her contributions had and will continue to have a positive impact on the lives of countless Soldiers, Civilians, and Family members who serve the greatest country on earth. Know that we took good care of her during her time with us and it was an absolute pleasure to get to know and work with her. She made a lasting impact on us on a professional and personal level.
We will always remember you, Ruth!
I was deeply saddened to hear of Ruth's passing. She was an extraordinary lady whose presence left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege to know her. I had the opportunity to work closely with her on many initiatives in support of Army Medicine throughout the years. We spoke weekly up until her passing, and I always looked forward to our discussions. She was full of wit and good humor, and her assessments - both professional and personal - were always insightful, appreciated, and on point.
Her dedication, warmth, and kindness will be greatly missed, and I will miss our conversations dearly. Please accept my deepest condolences. My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Marisela Rivera-Resio
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
