Barbara Byrd Power

Barbara Byrd Power, 90, passed away on June 4, 2024, at University of Kentucky Hospital in Lexington, following a short illness. Barbara was born on November 26, 1933, in Bakersville, North Carolina to the late Marshall and Geneva McKinney Byrd. She married Paul N. Power, her college sweetheart, in 1956. She and Paul spent the remainder of their lives together in Berea with Paul preceding her in death in 1997. She was also preceded in death by her brother Pat Byrd, two sisters, Osie Nies, Argie Ramey; and her beloved son-in-law David Schofield.

Barbara was a strong woman – holding fast to her beliefs, defending those she loved, and always seeking to enjoy family and friends. She was a retired Librarian, and an excellent seamstress of renown. Barbara served on the Board of Directors of The New Opportunity School for Women for 23 years. She also served on the Board of Directors of the Mountain Maternal Health League. She spent many years, alongside her husband Paul, working in theater, first in the original production of Wilderness Road, the outdoor drama, then later in the highly praised Berea Arena Theater and the Henrietta Child’s Children’s Theater on the Berea College campus. She then provided support for the revival of Wilderness Road, designing costumes for a cast of over 40, to the acclaim of theater critics.

In 1995, Barbara and Paul received the Alumni Award of Special Merit, honoring their service and extraordinary quality of work. In 2004 she received the Elizabeth Perry Miles Award for Community Service.

Barbara had a deep love for plants and flowers, and her home garden was a delight to the many friends and colleagues who visited her in her retirement. Barbara also enjoyed cooking and sharing her latest dessert treats with her eager group of friends.

Barbara is survived by her son Kevin Power (Suzanne), her daughters, Heather Schofield and Andrea Power, grandson Paul Schofield, granddaughters Hannah Schofield, Rylea Bush and Marleigh Power, as well as one niece and two nephews. In addition to her surviving kin, she and Paul shared their love, and offered wisdom to all from their life experiences. They opened their home to many students that became like family. Barbara and Paul lived in Berea for over fifty-nine years, and they formed some of their closest "chosen" family ties there.

Barbara touched so many lives and acted as mother, sister, or beloved friend for an abundance of people in Berea and across the country.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to SaraCare P.O. Box 1292, Berea KY 40403 and The Matt Ross Fund 105 Boone Court, Berea KY 40403, two local non-profits.

There will be a Celebration of Life on August 10, 2024, 2:00 p.m. at First Christian Church, Berea Kentucky.

Reppert Funeral Home and Cremation Service entrusted with arrangements.