Barbara Ward Mishoe, born March 12, 1934, in Charleston, SC, was the daughter of the late Eugene R. Ward and Ruth Morris Ward Baker. A woman of sharp wit, unwavering faith, and a spirit that couldn’t be dampened, Barbara passed away leaving behind a legacy as vibrant as her personality.
Barbara’s zest for life was evident early on at Winyah High School (class of 1952) in Georgetown. Whether she was cheering on the sidelines, competing on the basketball court, or participating in numerous clubs, she was always at the center of the action. She was honored as “Ms. Pocahontas” and, in a testament to her infectious charm and bright spirit, was voted Senior Superlative “Most Flirtatious”—a title she carried with a wink for the rest of her life.
A proud 1956 graduate of Coker College, Barbara’s collegiate years were defined by leadership and athleticism. She served as Freshman Commissioner and Representative, Secretary-Treasurer of her Junior Class, and ultimately, President of the Senior Class. Her peers recognized her excellence by electing her to the Student Council, Athletic Council, and “Who’s Who Among Students.”
Her beauty and grace earned her a spot on the Beauty Court and in the May Day Dances, while her intellect and creativity led her to the Biology, French, and Drama Clubs, as well as the Alpha Psi Omega honor society. She was a true Renaissance woman, participating in the Modern Dance Club, serving as a Chapel Proctor, and competing in everything from tennis and crew to volleyball, hockey, and basketball. On the court, she was a standout member of the “Honor Team.” At the time, the mascot was the “Coconuts,” and players were restricted to playing either offense or defense. Barbara excelled as a defensive specialist. She would likely tell you that today’s players could learn a thing or two from her era, given that “no one plays defense anymore!” That defensive instinct served her well later in life.
Barbara was a dedicated educator. She began her teaching career at North Charleston High School and later taught at Greeleyville Elementary, Manning Christian Academy, and Laurence Manning Academy, the latter of which she helped found.
She was a pillar of the South Carolina community, serving on the parole board for the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) and acting as a formidable force in the South Carolina Republican Party. When she made a bid for a SC House seat, she did so with the goal of bringing a “down-home,” common-sense approach to the Capital City. A lifelong member of the Methodist Church in both Greeleyville and Georgetown, Barbara’s faith was her cornerstone.
Barbara was preceded in death by the love of her life, Thomas Neil Mishoe of Greeleyville; her mother, Ruth Ward Baker; her father, Eugene R. Ward; her brother, Roger Ward; her nephew, Brad Freeman; and other beloved family members who welcomed her home.
She is survived by her children and their families: Carolyn Mishoe-Coon and her husband, Bill, and their children, Matthew and Megan Coon; Tommy Mishoe and his wife, Angie, and their children, Marshall and Jordan Mishoe; and Martie Kennedy and her children, Eric, Anne, and Lee Kennedy, along with her great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Edna Freeman and her husband, Al, and her sister-in-law, Becky Ward. She cherished her nieces, nephews, and their families: Bobby Jonte; Marge Mahoney; Virginia Jonte; Allen Freeman; Robin Kirtley; Lori Bellune; Toni Bunting; Kelli Ward; and Jessica Moultrie. Also surviving are family members Johnny Mishoe, his wife Sandra, and Leonard Mishoe, as well as special family members Darrell Turner and his wife, Vassar, and their children, Faye and Allie, and a longtime family friend, Mr. Louis Reid.
A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. on Monday, May 18, 2026, in Mt. Hope Cemetery with the Rev. Jay Wilder officiating.
The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Monday, May 18, 2026, at Stephens Funeral Home.
Pallbearers will be Gerald Widler, Jay Wilder, Matt Wilder, Bobby Jonte, John Mishoe, and Darrell Turner.
Honorary pallbearers will be Johnny Mishoe, Leonard Mishoe, Louis Reid, and Charlie Hinds.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org.