Barbara Elizabeth Ward

BARBARA ELIZABETH WARD was in Baltimore, Maryland on September 18, 1948. She was the second child, and only daughter, born to the late Mr. James Bartow and Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Ward. Though Barbara was the only girl, her brothers- James “Jimmy”, (deceased), Gary and Darryl- always respected her thoughts and opinions as equal, whether they wanted to or not. At an early age, Barbara committed her life to Christ and become a member of Friendship Baptist Church, under the pastoral leadership of the late Reverend McCoy, and where her father and mother served as Deacon and Deaconess. Barbara had a beautiful voice, which she shared with Friendship’s Youth Choir. He relationship with Friendship continued until her death. Friendship Baptist Church is the only church home that Barbara ever knew. In 1966, Barbara graduated from Edmonson High and later attended Morgan State University. Throughout her life, Barbara had a great love and understanding for children, especially those who were disadvantage. It was this commitment to children, acknowledged at an early age, and inspired by her own pre-teen diagnosis with scoliosis, that likely led to Barbara- earning a certificate in early childhood care and education. Though she had a soft spot for children, Barbara would serve as an advocate for anyone in need, irrespective of age. Care was the common denominator in every professional position that Barbara held. Throughout her career, she worked at the Social Security Administration, Pathmark Stores, Charles Hickey School and day care facilities throughout Baltimore. For the past two years, Barbara cared for Miss London Thompson, watching her grow from infant to toddler. To know Barbara was to know how munch she loved and protected her family- watching only to see them happy. She loved fiercely and often put the needs of others ahead of her own. If asked how she was doing or what could be done for her, she would simple say, “God’s got me.” Along with her sibling, Barbara took care of her father and mother, through long illnesses, until their passing. She consistently showed her love in small yet significant ways, such as baking a sweet potato pie especially for you or calling to remind you that your favorite TV show was airing. Barbara had a wonderful sense of humor and a hearty laugh. She gave so munch and only asked for appreciation in return, accompanied by a smile. Next to family, friends, and good food (which she enjoyed cooking), Barbara loved sports, football in particular. Red was her favorite color; but Barbara proudly wore purple and white to show solidarity with “her” Ravens. When they were playing, even her closest friends knew not to call, unless the interruption was quick and game-related! Barbara leaves to remember her laughter and love, brother, Gary and Darryl Ward of Baltimore; sister-in-law, Jannett of Reisterstown; devoted friend of thirty-seven years, Charles Bell, of Baltimore; niece, Mrs. Kym Ward Gaffney (Brian) of Brooklyn; nephews, James “Jimmy III”, and Shawn Sr., Both of Reisterstown; great-nephew: Shawn Jr., James, and Damari Ward, and James and John Gaffney. Aunts: Dorothy Wards and Nellie Ruth (Jacksonville), Nellie Gainer (Baltimore), Joyce Knight (Norfolk). Long-time, close friend: Charlene Dickerson, and host of relatives and friends who continue to love her and honor her memory.

Tributes

Barbara Elizabeth Ward

September 18, 1948 - July 25, 2010