Barbara Faye Zirps

AIKEN, SC- Barbara Faye Zirps, 86, beloved wife of 64 years to the late George Thomas Zirps, passed peacefully away Saturday, May 21, 2022, at Camellia Walk Assisted Living Facility in Evans, GA, with her daughter by her side.

Born in Columbus, OH, she was a daughter to the late Ray and Ruth Watson Skinner. Her sister (also deceased) was Christina Skinner Williams.

Barbara proudly served in the United States Navy after high school. She served as a photographer’s mate in Boston. She was very proud of her service and loved Boston. It was there she met Chris Zirps who introduced her to his brother and the love of her life, George Zirps.

Barbara is survived by her beloved children, Dr. Fotena Zirps and Thomas Zirps. She is also survived by brother-in-law Christos Zirps (92) and sister-in-law Fotena Lusk (94) and her nieces and nephews Amy Lusk Martinetti, Nora Zirps, Zia Zirps, Christopher Zirps, Debra Zirps, Ben Zirps, Melissa Zirps, Thomas Zirps, Jehanne Zirps, Arlo Zirps, Asa Zirps and Maria Williams Trippe. She is also survived by her step grandchildren Claire Schmidt Smith, Cole Schmidt and Mitch Schmidt. She is also survived by Susan Allison who was like a daughter to both George and Barbara.

Barbara and her husband George were active in their town of Aiken. They both loved Aiken – especially their church, Fellowship Sunday School class, Garden Makers Club, Hopeland Gardens, Aiken County Historical Museum and the parades and events sponsored by the city. They actively volunteered at ACTS until the end of their lives. They participated in prayer ministry at St John’s weekly as well. They loved animals and had a bird sanctuary in their back yard. Barbara and George were both known for their faith and positive outlook.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to ACTS (Area Churches Together in Service) http://actsofaiken.org 340 Park Ave SW, Aiken, SC 29801 803-642-5919

A celebration of life service honoring both George and Barbara will be held Thursday, June 30, 2022 at 10 am at St. John’s United Methodist Church with The Revs. Dr. Tim McClendon and Butch Blackwell officiating. The family elected to celebrate George and Barbara’s lives, together, on June 30^th   due to the significance of the special date. June 30^th would have been George and Barbara’s 65^th wedding anniversary. Please dress in happy colors for the service as it is a rejoicing for the lives of two wonderful and joy-filled people.

SHELLHOUSE – RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC