Barbara Jane Sikes-McKee

Barbara Jane Sikes-McKee, beloved wife, sister, aunt, grandmother, and friend to many, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, February 10. While we risk being haunted by Jane for daring to write this, we know sharing her remarkable life far outweighs her playful threats.

Jane was born on November 21, 1947, in Polkton, NC, the eldest and only daughter of the late Carson Bruce and Margaret Carter Sikes. Growing up surrounded by six rambunctious brothers, she developed a fiery spirit and an unmatched zest for life. If Jane loved you, she did so fiercely, unconditionally, and with a seemingly endless supply of grace.

After graduating from Wingate College and Appalachian State University, Jane began her career as a teacher. Her passion for teaching found its home in the fifth grade, specifically in the science classroom, where she transformed learning into a memorable adventure. Jane created a welcoming, vibrant environment with classroom pets like Tweety the Cockatiel and Thumper the Rabbit, while going out of her way to ensure every child felt included—personally covering field trip costs for those in need. Her students, colleagues, and their families were blessed by her boundless generosity, creativity, and compassion.

Jane met her soulmate, the late Jim McKee, on a blind date. Their love story began with an awkward mutual dislike for the film they were too polite to criticize in front of each other. That first spark grew into a lifelong bond, and they quietly married on December 23, 1987. Together, they built a life in Lenoir, NC, sharing a deep love of books, films, and gardening.

After leaving the classroom, Jane dabbled in different careers, including working in a gift shop (where she spent more than she earned) and leading tours as a guide. However, it was in starting her own landscaping company that she truly found her post-retirement calling. Designing unique gardens and sharing her love of flowers allowed her to thrive once more.

Even in retirement, Jane’s love for teaching didn’t wane. She poured her energy into educating her nieces and nephews, as well as the grandchildren, with hands-on lessons that brought science and nature to life—hatching butterflies, creating erupting volcanoes, and performing dazzling chemistry experiments. Her enthusiasm for the wonders of the world was infectious and inspiring to all who knew her.

Jane’s bright light brought joy, humor, and a bit of mischief wherever she went. From sneaking Kool-Aid into the Wingate fountain in her youth to masterminding spontaneous Christmas adventures with her nieces, she had a knack for turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Not only did Jane enjoy adventures, but she was also a fighter in every sense of the word. Her fighting spirit was never more apparent than when she defeated breast cancer. Her vibrant spirit and endless stories will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

In addition to her parents and husband, Jane is preceded in death by a niece, Eve Tiger. She is survived by her brothers and sisters-in-law: John, Russell & Janice, Bob, Bruce & Betsy, Gary & Kelly, and David & Michelle Sikes. She also leaves a special niece, Amanda Sikes (James Fuller), whom she cherished, and considered Amanda’s children, Charlie and Ruby Fuller, her grandchildren. Jane is deeply mourned by a host of nieces, nephews, their spouses, and children, all of whom will carry her legacy forward.

In true Jane fashion, she would not want us to cry for her but to laugh, dance, and share our favorite stories of her incredible life. The family will greet friends and family on Friday, February 14th from 7:00 to 8:30 pm at Leavitt Funeral Home. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in her memory to Hopewell Methodist Church ℅ Tammy Britt, PO BOX 514, Marshville NC 28103.