J.E. Washington Funeral Services, Inc. - Youngstown

Obituary For Mrs. Barbara Jean Washington Ford

A homegoing celebration in honor of Mrs. Barbara Jean Washington Ford will be held Friday at 12pm at the Jaylex Event Center, 2110 Glenwood Ave in Youngstown, OH. Mrs. Ford departed this life on Monday, June 21,2021 at her residence in Mullins, South Carolina. She was born December 11, 1943 in Youngstown, Ohio, the youngest of Amanda Adams Washington and James Washington’s seven children. Barbara graduated valedictorian from East High School, Youngstown, Ohio in 1961. She went on to graduate from Central State University, 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 over 50 years. Barbara joined Johnnie Ford in holy matrimony on August 15,1967 and 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 Jr. high school teacher, assistant principal, executive assistant and superintendent in NYC public schools. After retiring she and her family moved to Columbia, SC where they were awarded family of the year in 1995. Barbara also established the 1st 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, SC; her loving son Shawn Ford of Mullins, SC; her loving step son, Willie Gilchrist of Nichols, SC; three brothers, George Washington of Youngstown, OH, Walter (Julia) Washington of California, Norman (Donna) Washington of Cleveland, OH; Sister-in-law, Leona Jones of Bronx, NY; Brother-in-law, Archie Ford of Mullins, SC; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends. Barbara was preceded in death by both parents; a sister, Alice Butler; two brothers, Johnnie Washington and James H. Washington. The family will receive friends Friday from 11-12pm at the Jaylex Event Center. Interment will be in Tod Homestead Cemetery.

Guest Book

Ford Family, May You Find comfort in God's promise at Revelation 21:3,4. "God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things has passed away."

- na

Condolences to the family a Wonderful classmates that excelled in all spheres. Your contributions to society cannot be measured Peace and Blessings. Willie Sutton

- na

Auntie Barbara will be missed. May she rest in peace. She was a blessing to our family. Love to uncle Johnnie and Shawn.

- na

My deepest condolences to Uncle Johnnie and Cousin Shawn and the Washington family. Auntie Barbara was a jewel.May she rest in God's care in eternal peace.

- na

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- J.E. Washington Funeral Services, Inc. | Ohio