Barbara Bye passed away on Monday, August 10, surrounded by the love of her family.

She is survived by her daughter, Beverly Bye Teague (Randall); her son, Randall George Bye (Lisa); her favorite grandson, Riley Jameson Bye; and her treasured friend and longtime partner, Norm Oien. She was predeceased by her husband of 49 years, George Young Bye.

Barbara was born in Charlotte, North Carolina, on June 24, 1938. The family moved to Chattanooga in 1967, where she worked as a pre-school teacher and office manager. In her ‘spare’ time, she owned and operated Walnut Grove, a local art gallery showcasing the work of regional artists in pottery, glass, batik, weaving and painting.

Barbara orchestrated a family vacation to Monte Carlo in 1978. That experience sparked her passion for travel and inspired her to become a travel consultant. Over the next 20+ years, she traveled extensively and guided many travelers to their most memorable destinations. Some of her favorite personal experiences were climbing the Great Wall of China; riding an elephant in Bangkok, a camel in Cairo, a donkey on a hillside of Santorini and a horse in Napa Valley; climbing into King Tut's tomb in Egypt; and holding a koala in the Australian rain forest.

At her core, Barbara was an artist with abundant natural talent. She exhibited her work at numerous local galleries. Many friends and family members are proud owners of her original works.

Barbara was deeply rooted in Second Presbyterian Church, where she found her second family.

Barbara possessed a creative soul, a generous heart and an unwavering, determined spirit. She filled the lives of her family and friends with love. Her memoir, Living Life by the Seat of My Pants, celebrates her adventurous spirit and is dedicated to her adored grandson, Riley.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Second Presbyterian Church, 700 Pine Street, Chattanooga, at 1 p.m. on Sept. 12. Following the service family and friends are invited to stay for a time of visiting.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions in Barbara's memory be made to an arts, music, theater, or educational organization of your choice.

Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory, and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, Tn. 37343.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com.