Barbara Whitehead's Obituary
Barbara-Ann Brinkley Whitehead, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and dedicated educator, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. She leaves behind a legacy of love, commitment, and academic excellence that deeply touched her family, students, and community. She will be dearly missed by her Sorority sisters, Berlean Henderson and Charlene Price, as well as her lifelong friend, Bonnie Traughber.
Born and raised in Jackson, Tennessee, Barbara received her early education in the Jackson City School System. She continued her studies at Lane College, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Chemistry. She later obtained a Master’s degree in Administration and Supervision from Trevecca Nazarene University. During her time at Lane College, she became a proud member of the Beta Xi Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
Following her graduation, Barbara relocated to Chattanooga, Tennessee, where she began a remarkable ‘career with Hamilton County Schools, most notably at Howard School of Academics and Technology. Barbara dedicated her life to shaping young minds, and her excellence in the classroom was consistently recognized. She received numerous Teacher of the Year and Golden Apple Teacher awards. In recognition of her lasting impact, Barbara was honored as one of the Outstanding Women in America.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Otis and Vernell Brinkley; her sister, Doris Pippins; three nephews, Harold Pippins, Rickey Brinkley, and Montonio Robinson; her former husband, Taft Whitehead Jr.; and her sister-in-law, Veverly Fitch.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Barbara’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her three daughters: Erica Lolita Whitehead and Traci Dawn Whitehead of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and LaToya JaNiece Walters (Robert L. Walters) of Harrison, Tennessee. Her memory will be cherished by her five grandchildren, Jaylan L. Tate, Angel N. Whitehead, Dylan L. Walters, Cheyenne J. Walters, and Aiden J. Whitehead, as well as her great-granddaughter, Kaylynn Gaines. Barbara will also be deeply missed by her sisters, Nellie Sullivan of Memphis, Tennessee, and Jennette Bingham of Jackson, Tennessee; her brother, Carthell Brinkley of Jackson, Tennessee; her loving niece, Paula “Van” Henning (Wes Henning) of Memphis, Tennessee; and her nephews, Booker Sullivan Jr., Antonio “Tony” Pippins (Stephanie Pippins), Reginald Benton (ShaRon Benton), and Charles Edward Bingham II (Deidre Bingham). She also leaves behind a host of great-nieces and great-nephews who adored her.
Barbara’s profound dedication to others, her passion for education, and her unwavering love for family and friends will be remembered by all who knew and loved her. Her wisdom will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.
Barbara will lie-in-state on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral Service will follow at 3 p.m. in the Chapel with Minister H. Anthony Cothern, Jr. as the Eulogist.
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