Barbara Dey Horton Williams "Babs"

Barbara Dey Horton Williams “Babs”, 78, of Columbia, TN passed away on August 8th, 2026 at Maury Regional Medical Center.

She was born in Nashville, TN to Emily Jane Dey Jackson “Jay” and Robert Charles Dey. Babs graduated from Antioch High School, Class of ’66 and spent her early 20’s raising her three children while learning to farm and raise livestock with her first husband, Richard Earl Horton. In 1992, she married Alfred Thomas Williams, gaining two additional children. A nurturer at heart, Babs taught daycare at Highland Park Baptist Church as well as Sunday school in various churches. Alongside Al, they owned and operated Oak Furniture Reproductions in Columbia. Her later years were a beautiful reflection of her heart. “Grammy” poured endless love into her family, spending years enjoying her children as well as loving and caring for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Known for her sense of humor and fashion, Babs took joy in cooking, crafting, gardening, and bird watching. She cherished her dear friends and church family at Rock Springs Baptist Church. In her final days, Babs was surrounded by friends and family and lovingly cared for by her devoted husband, Al. 

Babs is survived by her beloved spouse Alfred Thomas Williams “Al”; children Elisabeth Horton Ruff (Scott), Brian Richard Horton (Michelle), Heather Horton Call (Geoff), Christie Williams Dickey (Tim), Brandon Alan Williams (Dee); sister Susan Dey; brother, Robert “Bobby” Dey (Debbie); grandchildren, Jordan, Dylan, Aynaka, Jaydon, Isaac, Ian, Morgan, Montana, Kaitlyn, Amber, Judah, Aubyn, Alyssa, Addison, and Leah along with 7 great grandchildren. 

Funeral services will be conducted Thursday August 13, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home with Brother Frank Webb officiating. Burial will follow in Rock Springs Cemetery. The visitation will be held on Wednesday August 12th from 4-8pm and on Thursday August 13th between 12-1pm at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com. Memorials may be made to Rock Springs Baptist Church 2242 Rock Springs Road Columbia, TN 38401.