Barbara Ann Darbon

Barbara Smith Brown Darbon was born on December 8, 1943 and was a native of New Orleans, Louisiana. She became a resident of Mesquite, TX in the year 2005 and ascended into glory on October 9,2026 at the age of 82.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her devoted husband, Joseph Darbon, Sr of 41 years. Barbara was preceded in death by a brother Joseph Smith, Chicago, IL and sister-in-law Vivian Smith, four brothers-in-law, five sisters-in-law, 5 uncles and 6 aunts.

She is survived by two dedicated sons Philip Brown, V, Mesquite, TX, Jobarron Darbon (Shanisa), Mesquite, TX. Also survived by a daughter Sonja Brown Barber, Prairieville, LA; 4 stepdaughters and 2 stepsons; one brother Willie Cole (Cynthia). A host of grands, great-grands, and great great-grands children, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Barbara was baptized at Stronger Hope Baptist Church at age 13 and as a faithful member under the leadership of Reverend J.J Carter where she played for the Sunday school services. After moving to Mesquite, TX, she continued her Christian journey as a member of Mesquite Friendship Baptist Church under Pastor Terry Turner where she sang in the “Women of Worth” choir and served on several committees.

She was known as Barbara Cook throughout her youth and high school years. She graduated from Booker T Washington High School in 1961. Shortly afterwards, as a military dependent, Barbara enjoyed traveling and had the privilege to live in Massachusetts, Japan, Idaho and North Carolina before returning to Louisiana.

Furthering her education at the University of New Orleans in the Department of Education, Barbara earned a B.A. degree and a M.E.D Degree. She also received credits in and instructed Social Studies, Mathematics, Computer Literacy, and Supervisor of Student Teaching. She retired from the Jefferson Parish School System. Other courses Barbara took included karate, flower arrangement, pattern drafting, Japanese, and Spanish.

Barbara loved spending time around people. She enjoyed activities such as bid whist, bridge, and crocheting. She was the Queen of the Mesquite Red Hatters and a member of the Skeeter Book Club. She would spend hours on phone conversations with her cousin Geraldine Honore. Barbara cherished spending time with her grandchildren. Especially time with Christopher Barber on many Saturdays and with Miyahlana Darbon, Maleilynn Darbon, and Marianna Darbon every Sunday evenings.

Viewing will be held at Mesquite Friendship Baptist Church, 680 US-80, Mesquite, TX 75149, US, on October 23, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by the Funeral Service at the same location on October 23, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.