Ila Amanda (Tiny) Turner Barbee, 95, of Charlotte, passed peacefully away at home, Nov.1, surrounded by her loving family.

The youngest of 9 children, born to Katie and Bob Turner in McCool, MS., Tiny, as she was known for most of her life, grew up on a large farm where she learned all there is to know about the original “Farm to Table” way of living. Her favorite stories in later life revolved around those days and the skills that successful families all shared.

She was a graduate of French Camp Academy, a Presbyterian school, which is still funded in part by a trust from the Turner/Taylor families and has been the home for thousands of children who found education, kindness, and opportunity on its campus. She loved this school and its heritage.

Ila went on to graduate from Draughon’s Business College, passed the Civil Service exam and at 19, boarded the new Tennessean train to Washington DC. There she went to work in the brand new Pentagon and stayed for the duration of World War 2. She also used her time there to develop her talents as an artist and painted landscapes and still lifes in oil.

While in DC, she met the love of her life, Bob Barbee of Charlotte, who was serving in the Navy in the Pacific Fleet. They were married after the war and set up housekeeping in Alexandria, VA, later moving to New Jersey.

When Bob’s father suggested they move back to Charlotte, they brought their family back and built their own house on the farm here. That became part of a family compound, and is where the children grew up surrounded by cousins. Ila was very active in the Huntersville community and at Huntersville Presbyterian Church. Later she attended Mallard Creek Presbyterian Church.

Our stay-at-home mom went back to work once the kids were grown. She worked as a ward secretary at Huntersville Oaks then she left there to become a hostess at age 75 at a local Wendy’s. Ila became something of a celebrity there with a loyal following of customers. She was recognized by the corporate office for her contributions to that store. After a fall, Ila decided to retire at age 87.

Meanwhile Ila and Bob were avid square dancers and became world travelers as well. When Bob passed, Ila devoted herself to her flowers, her vegetable garden and her children, grandchildren and great-grand-children.

Ila is survived by her 3 children: daughter, Lynda Snook and husband Spencer of Kingsport, TN.; son, Robert Barbee and wife Anita; and son, Mark Barbee all of Charlotte. She has 3 grandchildren: Shawn Hodges and wife Krista; Amanda Hartsell and husband Anthony; and Megan Barbee and partner Rosa Yataco-Uribe. There are 6 great-grandchildren: Ashlyn, Brock and Brady Hodges; Madison, Jacob and Josalyn Hartsell, and honorary great grandson, Peyton Deal. AC Barbee and wife, Josie are brother and sister-in-law and Marilyn Barbee sister-in-law. There are also many beloved nieces and nephews and special friends who will miss her as well.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Novant Health Hospice, 324 N. McDowell St, Charlotte NC 28204.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, Nov 11 at the home of Robert and Anita Barbee, followed by a 4:00 PM reception for friends.

Carolina Cremation of Charlotte and Salisbury is assisting the Barbee family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.