The Pawleys Island and Georgetown communities are mourning the loss of Barbara H. Bellamy, a devoted public servant, volunteer, and woman of faith who passed away peacefully on May 31, 2026, at Tranquility at Kennesaw Mountain Hospice in Marietta, Georgia. She was 88.
Bellamy died with her husband, Ray, by her side, bringing to a close a life marked by service, compassion, and dedication to family and community.
Born on December 19, 1937, in Troy, Barbara was the daughter of the late B.C. and Helen Horton. She grew up in North Carolina and attended Harding High School in Charlotte before earning a degree in mathematics from Wake Forest University.
Following her graduation, Bellamy began a distinguished career with the Social Security Administration. She dedicated decades to public service and ultimately managed the Social Security office in Georgetown, South Carolina, a position she held for the final 20 years of her career. Colleagues and community members remember her as a committed professional who worked tirelessly to assist residents navigating important benefits and services.
Outside of her professional accomplishments, Bellamy was deeply devoted to her family. One of the most significant acts of care in her life was building a home in Pawleys Island for herself and her parents. She became the primary caregiver for her mother, who suffered from dementia, providing unwavering support until her mother’s passing.
Her commitment to helping others extended throughout the community. A faithful member of the Community Church of Pawleys Island, Bellamy devoted countless hours to charitable causes and volunteer work. She spent time assisting at the local library, reflecting her lifelong love of reading and learning. She also helped maintain financial records for charitable businesses operated by Linda Ketran, supporting efforts that benefited the broader community.
Friends say Bellamy approached life with curiosity and a spirit of adventure. Travel was among her greatest passions. After saving enough money early in life, she embarked on a trip to Russia, an experience that sparked a lifelong love of exploring the world. Following retirement, she and her husband traveled extensively throughout Europe and across the United States, creating cherished memories together.
In recent years, Bellamy faced her own battle with dementia. Throughout her illness, family members received support, prayers, and encouragement from friends and loved ones, for which they have expressed deep gratitude.
A graveside service honoring Barbara H. Bellamy’s life will be held on June 20, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the cemetery of Belin Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions be made to the Community Church of Pawleys Island or to Tranquility at Kennesaw Mountain Hospice in Marietta, Georgia.
As family, friends, and former colleagues reflect on her life, Barbara Bellamy is remembered as a loving wife, devoted daughter, faithful Christian, accomplished public servant, and compassionate volunteer. Her legacy of service, kindness, and dedication to others will continue to inspire those who knew her.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.