(this is a partial obituary----full obit will be added later (laptop problems)

RALEIGH - Barbara Leigh Deese, 81, of Raleigh went to be with her Lord on October 25, 2021, after a brief battle with Covid.

Barbara was born on March 8, 1940 to Ruby Lee Bowling and Wlliam Jackson. She was raised by her mother alongside her sisters, Joan and Shirley.

Barbara married the love of her life, James Leon Deese, Sr., on March 25, 1956. They were married 45 years when the Lord called him home. Together they had five children: James Jr, Tina, Mark, Carrie, and Brian.

The early years of her married life were quite an adventure. Barbara followed James to all of his duty stations as a supportive military wife. Some of her favorite memories were of their family’s time in Hawaii. She had fond memories of fresh pineapples, homemade coconut cakes, and her children playing on the beaches.

After James’ military career, Barbara and family settled in their hometown of Raleigh, NC. Barbara enjoyed raising her children alongside her sisters, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Barbara decided to start her own successful career as a banker for Wachovia. She worked proudly there for 25+ years.

She is survivied by her children: James L Deese, Jr, (Dorothy), Tina Daisson, Mark Deese (Diane) and Carrie Nordquist (Jim) , 4 grandchildren, and  17 great grandchildren; sisters Joan Byrd and Shirley Deal.