Remembering Sandra McNamara Barber

Last updated: September 5, 2026

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Sandra McNamara Barber, 82, of Vicksburg, Miss., passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026.

Born on January 7, 1944, Barber was a lifelong resident of the city she so dearly loved. Vicksburg was not simply where she lived—it was home, and it remained her home throughout her entire life.

Barber was the daughter of Francis Xavier Leray McNamara, Jr. and Myrtle Glenn Abbott McNamara. She

was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Francis Xavier Leray McNamara, III and Alfred “Freddy”

McNamara; her beloved husband, Chet Barber; her sons, Stoney Qualls and Glenn Jeffers; and her

grandchildren, Billy Thornton, Jr. and Casey Jeffers.

Barber’s Creative Legacy

Barber’s primary career was as a bookkeeper, but her true passions were found in the things she created

for others. She had an extraordinary gift for catering, decorating, cooking, and making everything she

touched beautiful, memorable, and uniquely her own. She was an astounding cook, always willing to

prepare something unusual or exotic, and she had a way of turning an ordinary gathering into something

special.

Barber’s Love for Music

She also had a deep love for classical music. Her home was often filled with it, and anyone who entered her

home was sure to experience the music she loved. It was part of the atmosphere she created—a reflection

of her appreciation for beauty, warmth, and the finer things in life.

Barber lived a full and remarkable life, filled with family, creativity, music, food, friendship, and countless

memories. She said it best herself: “It’s been a big life.” Indeed, it was. And those fortunate enough to

know and love her were made better by being a part of it.

Barber is survived by her son, Jessy “Jay” Jeffers; her daughter, Delores Thornton (Billy Thornton); her

daughter-in-law, Josie Qualls; her cherished grandchildren, Erika Jeffers, Blake Thornton, Blair Thornton,

Austin Jeffers, Jesse Qualls, and Jacqueline Qualls; and her only great-grandchild, Adley Lieberman,

daughter of Blair.

Barber will be remembered for her extraordinary creativity, her love of beautiful things, her remarkable

cooking, her appreciation for classical music, and the unmistakable presence she brought into the lives of

those around her.

She will be deeply missed by all who loved her, but the life she lived and the memories she created will

remain with her family and friends for generations to come.

A private family graveside service will be held at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Vicksburg, Miss., at a later date.