She is survived by her siblings, many nieces and nephews, and friends.
Highlights
- Barbara Gail Worrell, a former referee for Billie Jean King’s golf tournaments, passed away at the age of 71.
- Barbara was an outstanding athlete during her time at Pulaski High School and Virginia Tech.
- She significantly contributed to sports throughout her life and was proud to be chosen to call the lines at the Ladies U.S. Open in Flushing, N.Y.
- Barbara’s funeral services will be held on Friday, March 14, 2025, including a graveside service and a memorial service, followed by a reception at the Draper Mercantile.
Barbara Gail Worrell, aged 71, passed away on March 11, 2025, at the Lewis Gale Medical Center in Salem, Virginia.
She was a former referee for Billie Jean King’s golf tournaments, contributing significantly to the sport during her tenure.
Her passing was announced by her brother, Gerald.
Barbara was born on January 20, 1954, in Pulaski, Virginia, to parents James Berman Worrell Jr. and Christine Elizabeth Sayers Worrell.
She was raised in a family environment that valued community involvement and personal integrity.
Barbara is survived by her siblings: James Richard Worrell, Kathy Elaine Shiffler, Gerald Worrell, William Schneider, and Joan Worrell (Kenneth) Umberger.
She is also remembered by her many nieces and nephews and her special friend, Barbara Hof.
It is not publicly known whether or not Barbara was married.
Barbara Was A Former High School And College Athlete
Barbara was an outstanding athlete during her time at Pulaski High School and Virginia Tech.
She was proud of being chosen to call lines at the Ladies U.S. Open in Flushing, N.Y., and she also refereed in some of Billie Jean King’s golf tournaments.
Even after graduating from Virginia Tech, Barbara was a dedicated, lifelong Hokies fan.
Barbara was active on Facebook, where she offered glimpses into her elderly life.
She often posted pictures of her family gatherings, favorite TV shows, and her beloved dog, Peppers.
Many of her friends and family have expressed their grief and condolences on Facebook.
One user wrote,
I am sorry about Barbara. Prayers to her family❤️
Facebook
A former classmate wrote,
Prayers for the families. Barbara and I were in the band together and enjoyed some great times!
Facebook
Barbara Will Be Deeply Missed By The Numerous Lives She Made Better
Barbara Gail Worrell’s funeral services will be held on Friday, March 14, 2025.
The family graveside funeral service will take place at 10:00 AM at the Draper Valley Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Draper.
Following that, a memorial service officiated by Dr. Wes Jamison will be held at 11:00 AM at the Village Chapel, located at 3091 Greenbriar Road in Draper.
After the memorial service, a reception and greeting of the family will occur at the Draper Mercantile.
Barbara’s passing marks the end of a life dedicated to sportsmanship, community, and family.
Her influence as a referee in women’s golf and tennis and her commitment to her community leave a lasting legacy that will be cherished by many.
Additional Information
- Some notable alumni from Pulaski High School are former NFL players Gary Clark, Shayne Graham, and Jeff King.
- Billie Jean King, a tennis legend and pioneer for gender equality in sports, famously won the “Battle of the Sexes” match against Bobby Riggs in 1973.
