Barbara Idalia Rowe

While in Barbados, Barbara received her primary and secondary education. Then she was trained as a seamstress and made a living in that profession for several years while living there.

In the mid 60’s she migrated to the United States and settled in Brooklyn, NY to find new economic opportunities for her family, while still maintaining a living as a seamstress. She eventually started a profession as a claim adjustor at Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company in New York. And it was in Brooklyn that she met and married the late Victor Rowe. After working there for many years she retired from this career.

In 1996 she relocated to Orlando, Florida, where she enjoyed a very full and active retired life and made many close friendships. While in Orlando, Barbara continued working as a seamstress for close friends and family.

Barbara had many passions, however, none was greater than her love for the Lord Jesus Christ. She was deeply committed to her faith and her character; ambition and service bore witness to this. Her light shone wherever her presence graced. Barbara became a member of the Holy Family Episcopal Church where she was an active, faithful member, and served for many years as an usher and also an altar guild.

Eventually, she became involved with the Pine Hills Seniors, Inc., lending her support to their many diverse group activities, trips and programs.

Along with dressmaking, she was also skilled in a host of other crafts, gardening, reading and working on crossword and sudoku puzzles.

It was Barbara's love for her Lord that sustained her during her many times of illness. She never complained and continued to trust in the Lord's will for her life.

Barbara leaves her legacy to be remembered by her children - Judy Maitland Greenidge (Walwyn), Valarie Maitland Herbert (Rod), Ricardo Rowe (Wendy); her God-daughter - Donna Taylor; five grandchildren - DeAnna Bush, Nicholas Bush, Leah Taylor, Kimberly Seabrooks, Monique Wright; great-grandson - Dylan Kearney; four sisters - Hilaria Sobers, Ordeen Archer, Yvette Bascombe, Gracie Dostie; one brother - Hanif Sobers; two nieces - Gail Bradshaw, Andrea Hill; nephew - Charles Bradshaw; and a host of other relatives and dear friends.

Barbara left us with more laughter than tears, more joy than sorrow and a legacy of faith, determination and quiet strength to follow.

"Well done faithful servant".

Fond memories & kind condolences may be shared for the Rowe family in the online guest book below.