Born Dec. 11, 1943, Barbara Jean Washington Ford ’69 departed this life June 21, 2021, at her residence in Mullins, S.C.
She was born in Youngstown, OH, the youngest of the seven children of Amanda Adams Washington and James Washington.
Barbara graduated valedictorian from East High School in 1961. She graduated from Central State University. She attended Antioch College, Syracuse University and Harvard where she obtained a Master of Arts in Teaching, and a Professional Diploma in Administration and Supervision.
Barbara was a member of Delta Sigma Theta for more than 50 years.
Barbara joined Johnnie Ford in holy matrimony Aug. 15,1967. This union was blessed with one son, Shawn.
She was a devoted wife and mother in addition to a caring and loving sister.
Barbara was a sincere friend to many.
Barbara was employed as an elementary and junior high school teacher, assistant principal, executive assistant and superintendent in New York City public schools. After retiring, she and her family moved to Columbia, S.C., where they were awarded family of the year in 1995.
Barbara established the first learning enrichment center in South Carolina’s North Eastern Regional AME Church District.
Barbara leaves to cherish her loving memories her devoted husband, Johnnie Ford of Mullins, S.C.; her loving son, Shawn Ford of Mullins, S.C.; her loving stepson, Willie Gilchrist of Nichols, S.C.; brothers George Washington of Youngstown, Walter (Julia) Washington of California and Norman (Donna) Washington of Cleveland; a sister-in-law, Leona Jones of The Bronx, N.Y.; a brother-in-law, Archie Ford of Mullins, S.C.; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.
Barbara was preceded in death by both parents; a sister, Alice Butler; and brothers Johnnie Washington and James H. Washington.
A homegoing celebration in honor of Barbara Jean Washington Ford was July 2, 2021 at noon at the Jaylex Event Center, 2110 Glenwood Ave. in Youngstown. Interment was in Tod Homestead Cemetery.