Barbara B. Bingham's Obituary
Barbara Bikas Bingham, age 90, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2026
Barbara was born on August 17, 1935, in Memphis, Tennessee, to James George Bikas and Addie Virginia Farned Bikas. A lifelong Memphian, she attended Idlewild Elementary School, Fairview Junior High School, and Central High School, where she was a member of the Tau Delta Sigma social sorority. She was baptized at Bellevue Baptist Church and remained deeply connected to her community throughout her life.
During her career, Barbara worked for several Memphis-area businesses, including Standard Parts, Blevins Popcorn, and Kitty Kyle Boutique. She also dedicated countless hours to serving others through volunteer work with Meals on Wheels and Germantown Methodist Hospital, and the Josephine Circle, where she served in leadership roles.
Those who knew Barbara admired her fearless spirit and unwavering determination. She possessed a sharp mind, a strong voice, and she stood firmly by her convictions even when her position wasn't the popular one. She lived her life fully, exercising, volunteering, and staying connected with friends well into her eighties. Above all, she treasured her family, whose accomplishments and happiness brought her immense pride.
Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Glenn Bingham; her grandson, John Layton Escareno; her sister, Elizabeth Bikas Rose; and her parents, James George Bikas and Addie Virginia Farned Bikas.
She is survived by her daughter, Leslie Gayle Bingham (Luis Padula); her son, Matthew Wells Bingham (Michelle); granddaughters, Alexandra Morin (Brandon) and Amy Kinard (Dan); and great-grandsons, Glenn Clark Morin and James David Kinard. She also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will cherish her memory.
The family extends its deepest gratitude to our devoted friends, Angela Brooks, Patricia Davidson, and Australia Young, whose loving care, companionship, and kindness enriched Barbara's life each day. We are also grateful to the Baptist Trinity hospice team whose compassion and support brought comfort, dignity, and peace during her final months.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis Union Mission, or The Stuttering Foundation.
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