The Memphis barbecue community is saying goodbye to one of its most iconic figures. Barbara Neely, who founded Interstate Bar-B-Que with her husband, Jim, in 1979, has passed away at 86 years old.

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Jim and Barbara Neely opened Interstate Bar-B-Que in 1979. WATN Memphis. Memphis barbecue icon Barbara Neely dies at 86. Posted: June 17, 2025 | Last updated: June 17, 2025.