Barbara Ann Suggs

Barbara Sears-Suggs was born on January 11, 1946, in Providence, Rhode Island. She graduated from East Providence High School in 1964. Her family was poor. Despite this, in 1966 she bought the first family home for her mother. Barbara gave her life to Christ and was baptized in 1967. She became a Licensed Practical Nurse the same year.

Barbara Perkins, as she was known as back then, married Benjamin Sears in 1968. Unfortunately, the marriage would not last. Barbara moved to Colorado alone in 1976 with her 3 biological kids. After living in a housing project for 3 years, she purchased her second family home in 1979 at 3432 Colony Hills Road. This was a stunning feat for a single mother in those days.

Barbara Sears worked at Ft. Carson’s Evans Hospital. Fiercely ambitious - she decided to pursue additional education. She worked full-time and attended classes. Barb graduated from Pikes Peak Community College in 1982 with an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. Later, she completed bachelor’s and master’s degrees – also in nursing. Barbara worked as a nurse locally until she was medically retired from a work injury.

After retiring, Barbara was a devoted wife to the late James Suggs. In 1996 after his death, she began expanding her family. She bought her 3rd family home at 6940 Fielding Circle where she lived with the 5 adopted children whom she would raise to adulthood.

Barbara Sears-Suggs is survived by her loving family. 7 biological or adopted children, as well as additional former foster children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Barbara was socially mobile, brilliant, tough. And complex. She survived trauma that would have driven a weaker woman to suicide. She sang “We’ve Come This Far By Faith” often - as she just kept it moving in her life. “Her song has ended, but her melody lingers on and will continue in the generations behind her.

There will be a small gathering at Luchal’s Restaurant after the service at 1pm. Feel free to order off the menu.