Barbara Jean Ivy

Barbara Jean Dowdy Ivy, 91, formerly of Anderson, most recently resided in Old Hickory, Tennessee with her son, passed away Sunday, October 5, 2025 at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis. She was born on June 5, 1934 in Roanoke, VA the daughter of Joseph and Minnie Dowdy.

She was a graduate of Anderson College. Started her career working for AT&T as a telephone operator. She went on to work as an office manager for several doctors in Anderson. She was hired on to Anderson University to be the office manager for the Office of Financial Aid, finishing her working career as a financial aid counselor patiently helping students navigate their unique financial situations as they attended college.

Barbara loved homemaking and hosting. She enjoyed keeping her home decorated for the season ready to welcome friends. Barbara loved a good recipe to bake and cook delicious foods. Sewing, crafting, and repairing were beloved hobbies for all kinds of projects from décor to shirts for grandkids. She loved doing puzzles with family and friends and watching for birds and wildlife. Barbara continued to enjoy playing piano and singing, especially hymns to the Lord through her whole life.

She is survived by her son, Bill (Karen) Ivy of Old Hickory, TN; daughter, Sharon (Wayne) Brannen of Elwood, IN, six grandchildren: Elaine (Nicholas) Keiser, Lydia Ivy, Billy (Bailie) Ivy, Adam Davidson, Martin Davidson, Cory (Samantha) Davidson; twin sister, Betty Jane Sells of North Ft. Myers, FL, Nephews: Joe (Julie) Williams, Michael Sells, Niece: Kathy Hughes

She was preceded in death by: son, Phillip Ivy and former husband Robert “Bob” Ivy.

Barbara will be sadly missed by many but leaves so many wonderful memories.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025 from 11 am until 1 pm at Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service. A funeral service will follow at 1pm at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Anderson Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial contributions: For fighting cancer – St Jude's or for funding education for students with need - Anderson University student financial aid.