Barbara Ann Drees, age 71, passed away peacefully at the Baptist Hospital in Pensacola, FL, on January 12, 2026, with her son and daughter at her bedside following a brief illness. Barbara was born in Vernon, AL, on March 29, 1954, to the late Jack and Dot Drees. She grew up in Columbus, MS, and graduated from S. D. Lee High School. She attended Mississippi State University after high school and later graduated with a nursing degree from Mississippi University for Women. Her career as a nurse led her to move around frequently before she settled in Pensacola a few years prior to her passing.

She enjoyed gardening and watching college football. She also loved watching old movies and reruns of her favorite television shows which included The Golden Girls, I Love Lucy, and The Andy Griffith show.

She is survived by her brother, Bill Drees (Cathy); her son, Adam Gunter (Lori); her daughter, Emily Strong (Roger); and three grandchildren. She also leaves behind many other family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

There will be a graveside service in Friendship Cemetery in Columbus, MS on February 21st at 10:30 AM.