Tri Sigma Mourns Passing of Past National President Mary K. Barbee

CHAPEL HILL, NC—It is with tremendous sorrow we report the passing of Tri Sigma’s 11th National President, Mary Keenum Barbee, Iota–University of Northern Colorado. She entered Omega Chapter on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at the age of 90. 

Since joining in the fall of 1954, Mary remained devoted to the values and advancement of the sorority. Beginning in 1967, she held several key positions throughout her 44 years of service, including National Panhellenic Conference Delegate, Walton House Board Member, and Foundation Board Member. In 1977, she became the first Tri Sigma to hold an executive office in the NPC and later served as NPC Chair from 1981–1983. 

At Tri Sigma’s Centennial Convention in Tyson’s Corner, Virginia, in 1998, she not only received both the Founders Award and was named a Centennial Woman of Distinction, she also gave the keynote address! She received her Golden Violet in 2004 for 50 years of steadfast service and support.  

Her influence extended far beyond Tri Sigma. This was perhaps most felt by her four children—Mark, Mike, Mary Elizabeth, and John Eric, whom she loved raising in the beautiful mountains of Aspen, Colorado—and her grandchildren, Alexandra, Samantha, Mary Ann, Josh, Eli, and Maddie.  

Her long professional career pivoted from teacher to non-profit executive before answering a calling she’d felt since childhood. After completing her ministerial studies at the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University, she accepted her first of three pastorate assignments within the United Methodist Church. Always a trailblazer, Mary was the first woman pastor to serve at each of her posts. 

“Mary’s impact on Tri Sigma was as enduring as it is inspiring. While this news brings sadness, it also invites Tri Sigmas everywhere to reflect on the joy and inspiration Mary shared with so many,” said current National President Lauren Moran. “Her visionary leadership and charismatic spirit have certainly left a lasting legacy on our sisterhood.” 

Services will be held at the Cody United Methodist Church (where she retired as pastor in 2006), Saturday, July 26 at 10:30 a.m. MT. Members and friends are encouraged to access a livestream of her service through the church’s website. Letters of remembrance and condolence may be sent to the family of Mary Barbee at 625 Skyline Drive, Cody, WY 82414-5002. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Tri Sigma Foundation.  

As is customary, Tri Sigmas are encouraged to wear a black ribbon under their badge for three days in honor of Mary’s legacy of service.