Eli W. Barber

Eli Willie Barber was born on December 20, 1924, in Winnsboro, SC. to the late Benjamin and Irene Barber. Raised on a farm, at an early age Eli earned the nickname “Rabbit” because he was quick on his feet and highly resourceful - characteristics that served him well throughout his life. Eli received his early education in the public schools of Winnsboro. At the age of 17, he left home to pursue a career in the United States Army. It was there that through hard work and determination, he developed and blossomed. He earned the rank of Staff Sergeant and the leadership skills honed during his military service were used throughout the rest of his life. After completing his military service, he returned to South Carolina. Later, he moved to Baltimore, Maryland to pursue job opportunities. He worked at Lackland Bleach and Dye Company and later at Sealtest Dairy Company, where he worked for many years, rising to the position of supervisor. He married Estelle McAllister. From this union, 6 children were born, Willie James, John Wesley, Eli Jason, Roy, Gloria Ann and Christopher Tyrone. That marriage ended in divorce. He was also father to Eli Daryl, Jonova (deceased) and Ida Mae. With the help of his second wife, Vivian, he was able to keep his large family together and raise them in a loving, nurturing and supportive environment. They were one of the first black families to purchase a home in the then predominantly white Edmondson Village community in Baltimore. Eli was a hard worker. He often worked 2 jobs to provide for his family. Always resourceful in creating additional means to support his family, he also used his car to taxi people around to the grocery store or even provide transportation for an out -of -town trip. Eli was also gifted with his hands; when necessary, there was nothing in the home that he could not fix or build. Eli was affectionately known by other names, including Bobby and Willie, However the two names he was proudest to hear were husband and father. He stepped up to the plate and became a nurse when his wife, Vivian’s failing health required that he do so. He nursed her until she was called to Glory and never once complained. After he retired, Eli also lent a hand to help out two of his sons. He worked as a landscaper for Daryl and a security guard for Eli at his business, Barber Transportation, until his health forced him to stop. Eli loved life. He loved the Lord and he rejoiced in singing songs in honoring God. He also loved the Blues. Eli could dance and he often would get his children in the basement and put on a song and dance show. Eli was preceded in death by his loving wife, Vivian Louise, son, Jonova Barber and grandchild, Penny Barber. His memory will always be cherished by those who loved him beyond measure: Sons: Willie James, John Wesley (Donna Mae), Eli Jason (Mary Tonola), Roy (Elaine), Christopher Tyrone (Brenda) and Eli Daryl (Stephanie). Daughters: Gloria Ann (Ray) and Ida Mae (Jeremiah). Grandchildren: Leah, Nicky, Tammy (Petey), Eli (Melanie), Pierre ( ? ), Elinthia, Patra, John ( ? ), Yvette, Tawanda, Sterling, Jeremy, Jasmine, Tiffany, Cherish, Eli, Dawn, Christopher, Sean, Damian, Corey, Autumn and Danielle. A host of great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Eli is also survived by 5 siblings: Bessie, Ernest (Jean) Jason (Vanessa), Lillian (Gus) and Katie (Warren), one sister-in-law, Margaret Mitchell, a brother-in-law, Robert Davis, and a special niece, Yoma Howard.

Tributes

Eli W. Barber

December 21, 1925 - October 25, 2013