Barbara Akers Cecil, 73, of Sparta, passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at her home surrounded by family.

Barbara is survived by her devoted husband of 51 years, Tom Cecil, Sr.; her loving children, Melissa White (Geoff), Michele Ware (Robby), Tom Cecil, Jr. (Laura), and James Cecil (Sarah); her cherished brothers, Ricky Akers (Jeanne), Bubba Akers, Donnie Akers, and Dean Akers; and her beloved daughter-in-law, Debbie Loving; and her many nieces and nephews whom she adored (Troy, Nancy, David, Jerry Lynn, Tammy, Erica, Christi, Thomas, Donald Lee, April, Tina, Kim, Brenda, JC, Joshua, Martinia, Heather, Ritchie and Christian.

She was the most proud grandmother of eleven grandchildren: Jennifer Wilson (Paul), Danielle Loving, Gary Poland, Sean Greco (Kaitlyn), Owen White, KayLee Heffler (Travis), BreAnna Hall (Mason), Thomas M. Cecil III, Tyler Ganoe, Jayme Cecil, and Vivian Cecil. Barbara was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren: Kelcie, Kayden, Ryder, Catalina, Kallan, Ryan, Chip, Carson, and Jameson. 

Barbara was preceded in death by her son, T.J. Loving, and her siblings, Steven Sexton, Marty Akers, Mary Lee Tate, and Linda Harless.

Barbara was known for her sassy spirit and quick wit that brought smiles and laughter to everyone around her, especially to the many nurses and doctors she met during her hospital stays. Her humor and warmth brightened even the most challenging moments, and her personality brought character to every room she entered.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 28th, at 2:00 PM in the Bowling Green Chapel of Storke Funeral Home, with burial to follow in the Loving Family Cemetery in Sparta. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Project Big Heart Bowling Green Chapter.  This charity has deep meaning to the entire family. 

Barbara’s sassy spirit and love for her family leave a lasting legacy that will be cherished forever.