Barbara Johnson Neely

Barbara Johnson Neely, 80, passed away on August 20, 2026, leaving behind a loving family and a lifetime of cherished memories.

Born Barbara Lee Johnson on September 24, 1945, in Washington, D.C., Barbara was the daughter of the late Charles John Augustus Johnson Jr. and Elizabeth Ann Orr Johnson. Barbara dedicated much of her professional life to education and public service. After working as a teacher, she went on to a career in federal service at Fort Eustis, Virginia, where she ultimately served as an Information Technology Specialist with the U.S. Army Training Support Center. She retired from federal service in 2007.

Barbara shared 29 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Donald Gene Neely, until his passing in 2016. Together, Barbara and Don made their home for many years in Smithfield, Virginia, where they built a life centered around family, faith, friendship and the things they loved.

Barbara and Don shared a love of travel and especially enjoyed cruising. Their adventures took them to wonderful destinations including French Polynesia, Nova Scotia, Mexico and throughout the Caribbean. Barbara also loved staying active. She and Don enjoyed taking long walks together along the river, sharing the beauty of the outdoors and the simple pleasure of one another's company.

Barbara was naturally social and enjoyed spending time with friends and neighbors. The friendships and connections she made within her community were an important part of her life. At home, Barbara enjoyed cooking for the people she loved. Her family will particularly remember her wonderful lasagna — one of those special dishes that became part of the family's traditions and will continue to bring back fond memories of her.

Barbara had a great love for animals. She especially adored her dogs, whose companionship brought her tremendous joy throughout her life. She loved birds as well, but the brilliant red cardinal held a special place in her heart. Barbara surrounded herself with images of cardinals, a familiar and comforting presence in her home that family and friends will always associate with her.

Faith was an important part of Barbara's life. She was a faithful member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church and shared a longstanding family connection to the Episcopal faith. Her father had also been active in the church, serving as a vestry member and treasurer at St. John's Episcopal Church in Arlington.

Above all, Barbara will be remembered for the life she shared with her family and the many simple pleasures that made it special — gathering around the dinner table, spending time with friends and neighbors, traveling with Don, and enjoying the companionship of the animals she loved.

Barbara is survived by her three sons, Blane Christlieb and his wife, Burnadette; Jeffrey A. Neely and his wife, Sheri; and Brian D. Neely and his wife, Roberta; her three grandchildren, Lexie, Carter and Max; her brother, Charles “Chuck” Johnson and his wife, Sara; and many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Gene Neely, and her parents, Charles John Augustus Johnson Jr. and Elizabeth Ann Orr Johnson.

Barbara's family will carry forward memories of a life filled with family, faith, friendship, travel, animals, good food and the simple things that brought her happiness. And for those who knew her well, the sight of a bright red cardinal may always bring with it a special reminder of Barbara.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, 2 p.m. in St. Lukes Memorial Park Cemetery.

Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com