Barbara Ann Smith's Obituary
REMEMBERING BARBARA
It is with deep sadness and enduring love that we announce the passing of Barbara Ann Smith, who departed this life on May 12, 2025, in Griffon, North Carolina, at 74 years of age. Born on October 31, 1950, Barbara was the only child of Lorenda Pittman and James Smith. At the tender age of 12, she was lovingly raised by her aunt and uncle, Lossie Bell Stewart and Bill Stewart, who nurtured her with the devotion that helped shape the strong woman she would become.
Growing up between Washington, D.C., and North Carolina, Barbara completed her education in Washington, earning her high-school diploma and laying the foundation for a life rooted in perseverance, love, and service.
In 1968, Barbara welcomed her first daughter, Phyllis Stewart. In the early 1970s she met her soulmate, lifelong partner, and husband, Ollie Thomas. Together they were blessed with their son, Andre Ollie Thomas. In 1994, Barbara and Ollie's commitment to family grew even stronger when they adopted Special Watkins from cousins Regina and Gladys Watkins, ensuring she was raised with the same support, love, and unity they devoted to all. From just three months old, Barbara lovingly raised Special as her own, with the support of her family. She was deeply devoted to keeping the children within the family, ensuring they were surrounded by unity, care, and unconditional love—values she lived by until her final days.
Barbara's impact stretched far beyond her household. She was a devoted woman whose laughter was infectious, whose presence was comforting, and whose kitchen was a sanctuary where generations were fed with meals made from love—meals no one could match. A true matriarch, she helped raise countless children in her community, forever a pillar of guidance and care.
She embraced life fully. Whether playing cards, taking bus trips to Atlantic City, working puzzles, watching movies with her children, or making her near-daily "research" trips to the grocery store to try new recipes, Barbara brought joy to every moment.
Barbara leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, strength, and unwavering devotion. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate to know her.
Barbara leaves behind three children, Phyllis Nelson (Earl ), Andre Thomas (Octavia) and Special Watkins. Grandchildren: Angelo Streeter, Nevaeh Thomas, Maverick Howard, Howard and Bless'in. Nieces and Nephews: Nekettta Streeter, Kiana James, Steven James, Shanita Pollard, Shaunita "White Girl" Streeter, and LaTaunya Streeter (decease). Cousins: Gladys Watkins (Cousin & Best friend), Devonne Rudolph, Nicole Rudolph, and more. Lifelong Friends: Terry Williams, Celeste Bowie, The Golden Girls (Ann Dobbs, Dottie P", and LaTaunya "Midge" Streeter (deceased).
What’s your fondest memory of Barbara?
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Share a story where Barbara's kindness touched your heart.
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