Barbara Elaine Barrow

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13

Barbara Elaine Barrow (née Anderson) was born on June 19, 1970, in Chicago, Illinois to the late Thomas Trent Sr. and Dorthy Anderson. Her education journey began in the Cook County school district, where her lifelong commitment to learning took root. This dedication eventually led her to achieve a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Master’s Degree in Arts and Education, a

profound testament to her perseverance and intellectual drive.

A Life of Service

In 1989, Barbara answered the call to serve her country by joining the United States Navy. With 23 years of honorable service, she rose through the ranks with distinction, retiring in 2012 as a First-Class Damage Control Specialist. Her military career was a true reflection of her inner strength, discipline, and unwavering sense of duty.

Following her naval retirement, Barbara transitioned into civilian service with the same excellence. For the past nine years, she served as a Program Analyst at the Southeast Regional Maintenance Center. Her colleagues respected her as a consummate professional who brought both clarity and compassion to every challenge she faced.

Strength, Faith, and Humor

Barbara’s gentleness was matched only by her “sharp” sense of humor. She possessed an innate ability to uplift those around her, offering wise counsel and comfort whenever it was needed most. Even when facing her own personal trials, she did so with grace and resilience that inspired all who knew her. Her faith was her foundation, serving as a beacon of hope for others navigating their own storms.

A Devoted Family Matriarch

To know Barbara was to witness compassion in action. She was a treasure—full of wit, insight, and unwavering love. Above all, she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, niece, and friend.

Barbara shared thirty beautiful years of marriage with her husband, Cecil Barrow Jr. Together, they raised two children, Latoria Williams and Jevon Barrow, who were the absolute pride of her life. Her joy only multiplied with the arrival of her grandchildren, Leevi and Tommie, whose presence brought a special light into her world.

One of nine siblings, Barbara maintained deep, lasting bonds with her sisters: Kathy (Greg), Janice, Cassandra Anderson, Felicia (Rodrick) Jones, and Shadai Biggs; and her brothers: Percy Moore, Thomas Trent Jr., and Anthony (Delores) Anderson. While she now joins her parents and her sister, Linda Prevo, in eternal rest, she remains a pillar of strength for those who carry her memory forward.

She leaves to cherish her memories a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and respected co-workers. Her legacy lives on in every life she touched.

May Barbara Elaine Barrow’s memory bring comfort to those who mourn her passing and continue to inspire acts of kindness for generations to come.