Barbara Louise “Garver” DeLeo

February 2, 1932 - April 14, 2021
Barbara Louise “Garver” DeLeo

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Barbara Louise Garver DeLeo of Wilmington, died on Wednesday, April 14, 2021, at New Hanover Regional Medical Center. She was born on February 2, 1932, in Gastonia, NC, to Lester and Ola Garver.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers Ralph, Paul and Harold Garver, as well as by her husband, John P. DeLeo. She is survived by her children, Jackie P. Shanklin (Kenneth) of Wilmington, NC, William (Bill) Pate (Donna) of Mobile, AL and Jeanne P. Gordon (James) of Hendersonville, NC; her grandchildren Chris Gordon (Siobhan), Jennifer Mercuri (Jeremy), Kristen Dewey Stephen), Aaron Pate (Analisa) and Hannah Pate; and her seven great-grandchildren.

Barbara had a love for life that was contagious. She loved gardening (she did indeed have a green thumb), traveling, line dancing, singing (she was in the choir at Harbor United Methodist Church) and gathering with friends. She was in the Pilot Club of Wilmington; she joined the Red Hat lunch group; and she loved her “lunch group”; and she loved her “lunch bunch” friends. She dated on her children and grandchildren.

A visitation and memorial service will be held at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation on Saturday, April 24, 2021, from 3-5PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Post a Condolence” tab below.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S.41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403
910.791.9099

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  • April 15, 2021
    Ruth A. Markillie says:
    I first met Barbara about 15 years ago, i became closest to Barb when I started picking her up for Church, Red Hats, and going out to lunch, it was my greatest pleasure being with her. I think Barb was the sweetest, kindness person that I ever had the enjoyment of being with. I loved Barbara from the bottom of my heart, I will always cherish each and every memory of her.

  • April 21, 2021
    Cathey Blake says:
    So sad to read of Barbara’s passing. My years in the Pilot Club were brighter because of Barbara’s sweet smile and disposition. I join you in your grief. My thoughts and prayers are with all of her family whom she loved so much.