Barbara Ann (Carter) Busby

Barbara Ann Carter was born on July 11, 1932, in Steele, MO, the first of six children to Henry Lee & Lucille Wall Carter. 

She went to be with her Lord on February 23, 2026, at the age of 93 years and 8 months. 

Barbara attended high school at the Ursuline Academy in Arcadia, Missouri. After graduating, she attended university where she received her degree. 

After college, she was married to Bob McElroy until his death.  Later, she married Ed Busby where she traveled the world as a military wife.  After Ed’s retirement from the military, they settled in Mississippi where they owned a BBQ restaurant.  Barbara was very picky about her BBQ. 

Barbara held many jobs in upper management in her career before she retired.  After retirement she returned to Caruthersville, Missouri, to take care of her aunt, Opal Parks.

She was devoted to Sacred Heart Church where she faithfully supported her church through ministries and volunteering.  Her commitment to her church was a central part of who she was.  Her presence and service touched many lives.  She had a wonderful sense of humor and behind her humor was a very caring and generous person.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers ‒ John & Roy Carter, and two sisters ‒ Mary Frances Hilliard & Rebecca Makowski.

She is survived by one sister: Jimmie Larsen; close relatives: Brian (Brenda) Larsen, Lisa Carter, and Natalee (Lauren) Carter; and close friends: Linda Cook & Jackie Lewis.

Her life was a testament to deeply caring for others with devotion and unwavering faith.  Barbara will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Memorial mass will be held on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Caruthersville, Missouri, with Reverend Scott Sunnenberg officiating. Interment to follow in Mt. Zion Cemetery in Steele, Missouri.

H.S. Smith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara Ann (Carter) Busby, please visit our floral store.