Individual Details

Death

Mary Lee (Rusmisell) Barlow, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend completed her earthly journey on April 18, 2026. She was born on June 22, 1932 on her Mother’s birthday in Buckhannon, West Virginia. She had what was described by many as an idyllic childhood, surrounded by loving parents and extended family. She and her high school friends were known as the “Fab Five” and they held court at The College Kitchen, a diner in Buckhannon, WV. She attended Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, transferring to West Virginia Wesleyan College in Buckhannon WV after the death of her father. She graduated with a degree in Home Economics. In 1952 she married Wilson “Bud” Barlow. They enjoyed 46 years of marriage before his death. One of Mary Lee’s greatest legacies will be the 30 years she served as an elementary school teacher. She had a positive influence on hundreds of Parkersburg’s youth. Throughout the years, she was also active in, and enjoyed membership in the PEO Sisterhood, a philanthropic association and Alpha Zi Delta sorority. She was an active member of First United Methodist Church in both Parkersburg, WV and High Point, NC singing in the choirs and serving on a variety of committees. After Bud’s death and her retirement, Mary Lee moved to High Point to be closer to her children and grandchildren. Numerous trips to Switzerland with family and friends gave her tremendous joy. She was also an active member of the High Point Newcomers’ Club. “Gram” adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren and had special times with them, individually and as a group, creating lasting and special bonds. She also loved most any card game, especially Bridge. Mary Lee was preceded in death by her parents, Fred Hull Rusmisell and Jessie Mae Rusmisell; husband, Wilson Poundstone Barlow; brothers, Fred Hull Rusmisell and Russell Phillips. Surviving are her children: Andrew Allen Barlow (Janice), Raleigh NC; Wilson Phillips Barlow (Dawn) East Haddam CT and Mary-Price Furr (Mark) High Point, NC. Grandchildren include: Katie Lee Jones, Raleigh, NC, Chase Barlow Furr, Dallas, TX, Wilson Parker Barlow, New York, NY, John Steven Furr (Sydney), Huntersville, NC, George Thomas Barlow, New York, NY; and two great grandchildren: Ashleigh Kyla Jones and James Michael Jones, Raleigh, NC. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday May 2 at 10:30 a.m. at First United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers the family asks for memorials to be sent to First United Methodist Church, 512 North Main Street, High Point, NC 27260.