Barbara “Pete” Ashley Klinghard, 71, of Talladega, AL passed away at her home on Wednesday, December 24, 2025. A celebration of life ceremony will be held in her honor at 3:00 P.M. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at First Methodist Church of Talladega with Todd Henderson officiating. Her family will receive friends at the church for one hour prior to the service.

Mrs. Klinghard was affectionately dubbed “Pete” by her father in her early childhood—short for Peter Rabbit and Pistol Pete. She was a native of Birmingham but currently lived in Talladega. She graduated from Banks High School and the University of Montevallo where she earned her master’s degree. During her time at Montevallo, she also participated in the artistic swimming program. Barbara taught at Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind, and she loved the children that she taught there like they were her very own. She retired after over 40 years of dedicated service. Mrs. Klinghard was a devoted member of First Methodist Church of Talladega, and she had a deep love for arts and crafts and music. She was a beautiful and resilient soul who overcame many obstacles in her life with grace, strength, and a smile on her face. Despite her own struggles, her caring spirit ensured that she always put others before herself. Barbara had a vibrant energy that perfectly matched her outgoing personality and positive outlook on life. She will be deeply missed by her loving family.

She was preceded in death by her husband of over 40 years, Gary Klinghard, and parents, Harold and Pat Bailey.

Mrs. Klinghard is survived by her brothers, David Bailey (Angela) and Jon Bailey; nephew, Jonathan Bailey; niece, Dayna Rice (David), and fur baby, Stella.

In lieu of flowers, Barbara’s family asks that donations be made in her memory to the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind Foundation at www.aidb.org/donations.

Online condolences may be offered at www.usreyfuneralhome.com.

Usrey Funeral Home of Talladega is assisting her family.