Barbara Maxine Coleman

Barbara Maxine Coleman (nee Brantley) was born March 12, 1939, in Fordyce, Arkansas to Clytie Mae Walsh and Henry Brantley, both who preceded her in death. Barbara dedicated her life to Christ at an  early age and attended service regularly. Growing up, Barbara was quite the athlete and scholar. She received accolades for her basketball skills and was a member of the honor society. Following her high school graduation, she moved to Los Angeles, California to attend Los Angeles City College, where she earned an associate degree. _ Barbara then moved to San Francisco, California where she began her career working at the Emporium and a prominent Financial Institution. There she raised her sons, Darryl and Kevin, and soon met and married Vernon Coleman. In 1975, the family moved across the country to Potomac, Maryland. Barbara made Maryland her forever home, but she maintained a connection with loved ones in San Francisco, and never forgot her Arkansas roots.

In Maryland, Barbara embarked upon another care r as Executive Assistant for Norman Rales at Mid­ South Building Supply and the Rales Foundation in Potomac, Maryland.  She continued working for Mr. Rales until her retirement in 2002. Her retirement was short-lived as she had more to give and accomplish. Barbara began a second career as the Receptionist for Frank Emmet Real Estate, Inc.  in Silver Spring, Maryland where she managed the front desk, greeting everyone with warmth and professionalism for sixteen (16) years.

Barbara was always a standout, dressed impeccably, most often in her signature colors of red and black. She was outgoing and welcomed everyone she encountered with friendliness.  Her presence was known the minute she entered a room, as her smile and positive disposition were infectious. Barbara enjoyed helping others, entertaining, passing along her wisdom as a mentor, and just sitting at the kitchen table drinking coffee with family and friends. Barbara loved entertaining and was quite the hostess. She loved cooking and sharing her tasty meals and cakes on holidays and other celebrations (although, she never shared the recipes). She enjoyed good food, African American art, and listening to jazz. As her impressive book collection would indicate, Barbara loved reading. She was member of a local book club for several years.

Barbara departed this life November 11, 2019. She was preceded in death by her sister Sharron Jacobs; brother Gregory Jacobs; grandson Darryl "Bud-e" Ross Jr.; granddaughter Teresa Johnson; and great­ grandson Jaxon Johnson. She leaves to cherish her memories: her sons Darryl Ross Sr. (Janet) Germantown, MD; and Kevin Lendo (Ewaynia) Bowie, MD; granddaughter Tenecia Ross; great granddaughter Kayla Johnson; niece Chauncey Jacobs; nephew Martin Jacobs; step brother Rev. Dr. Lawrence E. Johnson, Durham, NC; her dearest friends Betty Elarms and Allene Weathers; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

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