Barbara Elizabeth Hearn McKay

Barbara Elizabeth Hearn McKay, age 84, of Vicksburg Mississippi, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 29, 2025.  She was born on July 4, 1941, the daughter of Mary Elizabeth Rist Hearn and Claude Ozell Hearn of Redwood, Mississippi.

She was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and great-grandmother whose kindness touched all who knew her.  She was the proud mother of four children, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart.  Barbara worked for almost 40 years for River Region, Merit Health as a switchboard operator/supervisor until her retirement.

Her large family was very Special to Barbara; always calling and checking on everyone including her dear close friends.  Barbara was well known for her generous spirit and especially loved bringing her family together during the holidays.  Barbara was a wonderful cook and everyone loved her homemade chicken/dumplings, whiskey nut cakes, famous divinity, and delicious pies.  She also enjoyed occasional trips to the casino, a pastime she found both fun and relaxing.  A true animal lover, Barbara deeply adored her cats and dog, who were her constant companions and a great source of comfort to her.  Above all, she shared a deep and enduring love with her husband, Clifton Sr., and treasured the life and family they built.  Barbara's compassion, warmth, and unwavering love will be fondly remembered and dearly missed. 

She is preceded in death by parents, brother Wayne Ozell Hearn, Sr., and brother-in-laws William Ralph Boyle, and Willie Carol Chapin. 

She is survived by her husband, Clifton Newman McKay, Sr.; sons, Clifton Newman McKay, Jr. (Cindy), Michael Wayne McKay; daughters, Linda Elizabeth Martin, Sandra McKay Harris (Roger); brothers, Alfred "Pete" Hearn (Carolyn), James Sherman Hearn (Edna), Charles O'Neal Hearn (Brenda), Calvin Lee Hearn (Judy), Vernon Eugene Hearn (Susan), Gary Todd Hearn (Glynda); sisters, Rosie Lee Boyle, Ruby Ann Chapin, Gloria Dean Blake (Henry), Donna Jewel Whaley (Mike); sister-in-law, Charlene Hearn; grandchildren, Eric "Bubba" Martin, Heather Elizabeth Noble (Craig), McKay Harris, Miles Harris (Claire), Mason Harris, Jami Riddle (Tim); great-grandchildren, Grayson Noble, Kyleigh Riddle and Corey Riddle; numerous nieces and nephews.

Honorary pallbearers will be grandsons;  Eric ”Bubba” Martin, McKay Harris, Miles Harris, and Mason Harris.  A special thanks to Dr. Paul Pierce IV, Dr. Russell Barnes, and Dr. Jonathan Flowers for the many years of compassionate care and kindness throughout her healthcare journey.

A celebration of life will be held at Glenwood Funeral Home on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. Billy Talbert officiating the service. Visitation will be one hour before the service. 

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