Barbara spent her earliest school years in New Orleans, Louisiana. During her teenage years, she moved to the Northside of Houston, Texas, where she completed her education and established the roots that would shape the rest of her life.
A devoted mother, Barbara was blessed with three children: her son, Rodney Swan; and her two daughters, Marva Shelton and Brochelle Hamilton. Her children were the pride and joy of her life.
Barbara was united in marriage to Marvin Washington in 1967. She later married Lee Samuel in 1992, with whom she shared many years until his passing in 2008.
Following God's call on her life, she was ordained into ministry in February 2009. Barbara dedicated her professional life to serving others through her 23 years at MD Anderson Cancer Center from which she retired. Her commitment, compassion, and strong work ethic earned the respect of her colleagues.
Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lee Samuel; her mother, Oneida Hicks; her father, Nathaniel Chatman; her sister and grandparents; and other cherished family.
She leaves to cherish her memory and celebrate her life: her son, Rodney, her daughters, Lynette and Brochelle; her grandchildren; TaKosha Fluence; Domonique Palmer; Alexis Byrd; Diontrell Cox; Brieana Caldwell; JaRon Shelton; Sherquitta Taylor;
Cherrelle Adams; Daniel Sweed; C’era Livingston; Christopher Swan; and a host of great-grandchildren; her siblings; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and loved ones whose lives were touched by her.
Barbara's legacy will live on through the family she nurtured, the friendships she treasured, and the countless memories she created. Though she will be deeply missed, her love and spirit will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.
“Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near still loved, still missed, and very dear.
