Osie Belle Curbeam

OSIE BELLE CURBEAM, beloved wife of the late Earl Curbeam, was one of five children born to the late Joe and Patsy Johnson on March 30, 1925 in Fairfield County, S.C. God called her home for her eternal rest on November 2, 2005 from her home in Owings Mills, Md. Education and Professional Experience: She was educated at the public schools in South Carolina and Baltimore City. She received continued educational achievements and credits from Coppin State University in Baltimore City. She also served as substitute teacher throughout the Baltimore City Schools. Osie was very interested also in Cosmetology; and she enjoyed this special gift. She took much pride in her work! Family Life: Osie Belle Johnson met and married the love of her life, the late Earl Curbeam on February 21, 1943. To this union, two daughters, Olivia and Debra were born. She also took under her wings, arms of protection and love Milton H. Johnson, Sr. as her adopted son upon the death of his mother, grandmother and other aunt. They really loved one another and communicated daily. Their last communication was in prayer by phone just an hour before her departure. Religious Journey: Deaconess Curbeam was a former member of Red Hill Baptist in Woodward, SC. She met the Lord at an old time revival, at Red Hill Baptist Church. Deaconess Curbeam later relocated to Baltimore and became a member of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church. She was installed as a chartered Usher member during her tenure at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church. In 1951, she moved her membership to the New Pilgrim Baptist Church. Deaconess Osie Curbeam and her husband, the late Deacon Earl Curbeam were chartered members and dedicated members of New Pilgrim Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. William Black. She was a faithful member of the Deaconess Board. Ushering was her passion; she was devoted and committed. She served as treasurer for the Usher Board for many years. She also was a member of Eastern Star Excelsior Chapter Number 41 of Baltimore, Maryland. She was truly known as an organizer for God's Vineyard also. Our Special Lady: Osie was affectionately known as Mom, Mommie, Grandmother, Grandma, Grannie, Auntie and Aunt Osie Bea. She was such a caring person and she was always one to offer her help in any way she could. She loved baking cakes, many can attest to the fact that they were really delicious. If you heard the statement "God don't like ugly" then we knew someone was in trouble. Her favorite verse was Psalms 118: 1,8 - "It was better to trust in the Lord, than to put your confidence in man". While sleeping peacefully early in the morning of November 2, 2005 Osie B. Curbeam made her transition. She leaves to cherish her memory: two loving and caring daughters, Olivia Curbeam-Newby of Baltimore and Debra Curbeam (Patrick III) McGill, devoted son-in-law of Toledo, Ohio; her adopted son, Deacon Milton H. (Shirley) Johnson, Sr. of Baltimore; two grandchildren, Kevin and Shaun Newby; one great-grandchild, Taylor Olivia Newby all of Toledo, Ohio; four siblings, Robert Johnson, Joe Green Johnson and Bessie Mae Rabb (all who proceeded her in death) and Woodrow Johnson of Buffalo, NY. She is survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and church family members who cherish her memory. Lovingly submitted, The Family

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Osie Belle Curbeam

March 30, 1925 - November 2, 2005