Barbara Ann Hammer McCall

Barbara Ann Hammer McCall was born on August 8, 1936, in Davie, Florida, to the late Anna Elida Griffin Hammer and Ralph Rolland Hammer. Though an only child, she grew up surrounded by her six uncles and an aunt, whom she affectionately called her “brothers” and “sister.” Their closeness nurtured the deep sense of loyalty and family that became the defining thread of her life.

Her mother was a pioneering matriarch, one of the first children raised in what was then Zona, now Davie. From her, Barbara inherited strength, resourcefulness, and a lifelong commitment to community service—values that guided her throughout her 89 years. 

Barbara attended Davie School and Fort Lauderdale High School, where she proudly marched as a majorette for the Flying L’s. She went on to Florida State University, earning a Bachelor’s in Nursing and beginning her career as a public health nurse in Gainesville.

In 1958, Barbara married Richard “Dickie” Allen McCall, the love of her life and lifelong partner. Their 66-year marriage was defined by devotion, partnership, and joy. Together, they raised four children and created a home full of warmth, purpose, and boundless creativity. Barbara’s vision paired seamlessly with Dickie’s craftsmanship, whether in home projects, gardens, or volunteer work—though spirited debates often ended in her favor.

Barbara’s life reflected curiosity, resilience, and joy. She found happiness in her garden, at her sewing machine, and in the kitchen. She cherished her family heirlooms, including hand-painted china, and developed a deep appreciation for Japanese art and tradition, building a collection of décor acquired both during her travels abroad and from other artisans. She also became skilled at cultivating bonsai trees, a pursuit that reflected her patience, artistry, and care. Evenings were often spent with movies, Miami Dolphins games, or cheering on her beloved Florida State Seminoles alongside Dickie.

She often described her life as having three careers. She began as a nurse, later co-founded Creations by BarbieLou, a bridal dressmaking business with her mother and cousin Connie Lou, and in her later years devoted herself to the family business, McCall Nursery & Landscape. At the nursery, she led the potting operations, working alongside the crew, tending the greenhouses, and maintaining thousands of potted plants with characteristic energy and dedication. Sewing, however, remained a lifelong passion. She made many of her own clothes over the years and created the wedding dresses for both of her daughters, as well as the gown for her oldest granddaughter. Each was a labor of love that reflected her enduring artistry and the joy she found in sewing for those she loved most.

Barbara’s greatest civic passion was preserving the history of her hometown. She was instrumental in saving the 1918 Old Davie School from demolition and, together with Dickie, devoted decades to restoring its buildings and grounds. As a founding board member of the Davie School Foundation in 1984, she became its memory-keeper and driving force, ensuring Davie’s history would be preserved for generations to come.

Among her many personal projects, Barbara authored About My Mom, I Could Write a Book..., a loving tribute to her mother and a treasured family record. 

Barbara is survived by her children: Richard Allen Jr., Leslie (Alan) Schroeder, Ralph (Margie) McCall, and Stephanie (Matthew) Tindall; nine grandchildren: Kaylee (Andres), Zachary (Vanessa), Barbara (Paul), Jordan, Rikki (Richard), Kyle (Hannah), Taylor, Alyssa, and Therese (Andrew); and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband and her parents.

Barbara left an indelible mark on her family, friends, and community. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, in the Old Davie School she helped preserve, and in the countless lives touched by her leadership and love. Her spirit will continue to guide those she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Old Davie School: https://olddavieschool.org/give/