Barbara Miller Ghigo, born July 23, 1938, in Norfolk, VA, passed away Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at the Robin Johnson Hospice House. Her husband of 50 years, Henry Alexander Ghigo, preceded her in death in June of 2009. She was also preceded in death by her parents, John and Clara Miller, and her sisters Jean Broussard Young, Clarine Kelsay and Carolyn Kotarides, all of the Norfolk/Virgina Beach area. She is survived by her son, Alex Ghigo, and her daughter Anne Marie (husband James Wilson), and numerous nephews and nieces who loved her.

Barbara was a 1956 graduate of Norview High School. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Kings College in Bristol, Tennessee, majoring in Medieval History. It was at Kings College that she met and married her husband, Henry. After graduating, they moved to Shelby, NC for her husband's job with Waldensian Bakery.

Barbara had a number of 'careers' over the years, starting as a social worker in Cleveland County in the early 1960s. After her children were born, she stayed at home with them until returning to work in the late 1970's and starting a 20+ year career in real
estate.

Barbara was a gifted lady with a beautiful voice, and a talent for drawing and painting and she shared those gifts throughout her life. She was an active member of John Knox Presbyterian Church, where she was very engaged and sang as a soprano in the choir. She also sang in the Cleveland County Choral Society for many years. In her latter years, she joined with several friends in the Chick Band, and they would give performances at various events in and around Cleveland County. She also pursued her passion for art, which brought her much joy in the second half of life. This included being a founding member at Buffalo Creek Gallery, involvement with the Cleveland County Arts Council, and teaching art classes at the Senior Center and at Cleveland Community College.

Through her work and church and community involvement and hobbies, she developed many cherished friendships over the years. She had a good sense of humor which her friends and family enjoyed. She will be deeply missed.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, September 6th, 2025 in the chapel of Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family.