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a warm, unmistakable gift for conversation

Barbara McDowell Zahm, lovingly known as Bobby, passed away on October 27, 2026, in Eastman, Georgia, at the home of her daughter, Diane Lemley. She was born on May 28, 1932, in Greenville, South Carolina, and lived a life defined by hard work, faith, devotion to family, and a warm, unmistakable gift for conversation.

Barbara attended Parker High School and, though her path soon led her into the working world, it was during those early years in Greenville that she met her husband, Raymond, while he was stationed there. From then on, she built a life centered on family, perseverance, and caring for others. She worked throughout much of her life, continuing until she was about 70 years old. Her years in convenience stores and retail suited her well, because she truly never met a stranger. She was loving and caring, always ready to talk, always ready to help, and her kindness left an impression on those who crossed her path.

She was a woman of many abilities and many responsibilities. Barbara worked at Senior Action, helping coordinate activities at the Crescent Center, bringing energy and companionship to those around her. She was also gifted with her hands. A talented seamstress, she kept trunks of material and made many of her own outfits. She created beautiful things for her home, including drapery for her windows, and for a time she also did upholstery work. Left-handed and full of spirit, she approached life in her own distinctive way.

At the heart of Barbara’s life was her family. She was not only a mother, but a steady and determined presence who carried tremendous responsibility in raising her children while her husband served in the Air Force overseas. She was remembered as a hard worker who took care of all the children, and that strength of purpose remained one of the defining qualities of her life. She also raised her granddaughter and her great-granddaughters, extending her love and care across generations in a way that shaped the family around her.

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her kindness left an impression on those who crossed her path

Barbara’s personality was unforgettable. She was a talker, outgoing and funny, a woman of faith who said her prayers every night before laying her head down. Though just 5'2", she could be a fireball, spirited and lively, with a presence much larger than her stature. She was active in the Moose Lodge, especially in Florida, and remained involved after returning to South Carolina, traveling to conventions and building lasting friendships along the way. Among the accomplishments she held with pride was earning the Senior Regent of the Ladies of the Moose award, a reflection of her dedication and leadership.

She is survived by her children, Diane Lemley and Carl, Michelle Zahm, Larry Zahm and Kathy, and Randy Zahm and Nancy. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Kevin Zahm and Kristie, Bridgitt Lemley, Russell Zahm and Samantha, and Raishel Carter. Barbara is further survived by a special nephew, Johnny, as well as nieces and nephews who were part of her extended family circle. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the lives she helped shape, and the love she gave so freely.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond L. Zahm; her infant daughter, Paula Zahm; her granddaughter, Krystal Graveley; her father, Horace B. McDowell; her mother, Joyce Greer McDowell; her brother, H.B. McDowell Jr.; and her sister, Delores M. Cleveland.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on October 31, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Graceland Mortuary, 4814 White Horse Road, Greenville, South Carolina. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. at Graceland Mortuary, with words of comfort by Nick Netchaeff. Burial will take place afterward at 1:00 p.m. at Woodlawn Memorial Park, 1 Pine Knoll Drive, Greenville, South Carolina.

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a steady and determined presence who carried tremendous responsibility

Barbara “Bobbie” Zahm will be remembered for her faith, her resilience, her laughter, her conversation, and the way she made room in her life for so many others. Her hands were rarely still, her heart was open, and her love for her family was steadfast. She leaves behind memories stitched with care, strength, humor, and grace.