Barbara Jean Oswalt

Barbara Jean Oswalt, also known as “Bob” and “Aunt Bob,” 64, of Batesburg, passed away peacefully, surrounded by love, on Wednesday, July 9th, 2025. Born on December 5th, 1960, in Columbia, SC, she was the daughter of the late Lee Vinson Wood and Addie Margaret Gantt Wood. She was married to her sweetheart, Ricky H. Oswalt, for 47 years.

Barbara lived life with a heart wide open. Known for being the sweetest, most caring soul, she lit up every room with kindness, humor, and an unstoppable spirit. Barbara was truly one of a kind—someone who made everyone feel like family and never missed a chance to make someone smile. Whether it was with a warm hug, a spontaneous dance, or an encouraging word, she brought joy wherever she went. Barbara was a graduate of Batesburg-Leesville High School. She was employed at J.B. Martin for 17 years and at Shealy’s Barbecue for 17 years.

Barbara is survived by her husband, Ricky H. Oswalt; sisters, Stella Brown (Steve), Joan Grandy (Jimmy), and Annette Pierce (Keith). She is also survived by many very special nieces and nephews who loved her dearly, as well as many special friends.

The funeral service for Barbara Jean “Bob” will be held at 11 o’clock on Saturday, July 12th, at Milton Shealy Funeral Home with Pastor H. Barry Anderson officiating. Burial will follow in Ridge Crest Memorial Park. Family and friends are invited to visit one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10 o’clock.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Hulon Baptist Church in Batesburg.

A very special thank you from Ricky and Barbara Oswalt to the nurses and doctors at Lexington Medical Center, especially the Critical Care Unit, for the loving care they gave her—and me. A heartfelt thank you to Emma, her night nurse, and to Amedisys Home Health. You all will always be in my heart. I love you all.