Carol Hairgrove Barbera passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, North Carolina. Carol is survived by her husband, Michael Barbera, her son Douglas Rice, step-children (Mike Jr., Cono, Helena, Greg, Jim, and Michele) and her beloved dog Rocky Balboa. She will be deeply missed by her best friend, Beverly Stewart, and many, many friends and family throughout North Carolina, Ohio, and Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Wilma, and stepdaughter, Anna.
Carol Ann was born December 30, 1948, the first child of Frank and Wilma Evelyn Hairgrove. She was followed by four little brothers, who dearly loved her. Carol grew up on a farm in Sanford, North Carolina and graduated from Greenwood High School in Lemon Springs, NC. She had her son Douglas in 1972 and raised him in the Sanford area.
Carol worked as a career civil servant for over 40 years including for the Department of Agriculture and the United States Army. She served in various roles at Fort Bragg, including the assistant to the director to the USAJFKCENMA and was the smartest person in any room she was in.
Carol married Michael V Barbera Sr on Thanksgiving Day, 1987 after falling in love dancing. They made Southern Pines their home for the last 30 years and made an indelible mark on their community. Carol was a member of the Southern Pines United Methodist Church and the Moore County Cooperative Extension where she helped in various events and fundraisers to contribute to the community. Carol loved gardening and was an avid reader. Her passion was hospitality and cooking for gathered family and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be planned in the future.
Condolences may be sent to www.coxmemorialfuneralhome.com.
The family has entrusted services to Cox Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory of Vass.
