Barbara Ann Franklin Rawson died Tuesday, October 6, 2020. Born on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 1934 in Birmingham, AL, she was the third of four children born to Virgil Hood and Pinkey Collum Franklin. She was raised in the Shadyside neighborhood of Ensley. Barbara was a graduate of Ensley High School and the University of Alabama where she was a member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority. In high school, she met and began dating a young man (Hubert Eugene “Buddy” Rawson, Jr) who would become the love of her life. Their relationship continued through college and after her graduation, the two were married in February of 1956. Their love for each other lasted on display for all to see until his death in 2015. Although he was gone, Barbara’s love and devotion to him remained until her death. She was the beloved mother of three boys, a kind and loving mother in law and a loved and cherished Nana to her grandchildren whom she loved dearly. In 1959, Barbara and Buddy welcomed David Allen. After some time in Roebuck, the two made what they would refer to as one of the best decisions they ever made and moved to Bluff Park in 1961. In the same year, the two made another decision that would affect their lives in immeasurable ways by joining Shades Crest Baptist Church where they fostered their love of the Lord, raised their three children, and made lasting friendships that have survived the test of time. Soon after Douglas was born in 1963 and then Donald in 1967. Barbara was the financial secretary for Shades Crest for 20 years, worked with the high school seniors and then found her place in the nursery. She loved children! Barbara loved and supported her husband of 59 years, her children and grandchildren, her family, friends, and even strangers. Her beautiful smile and caring ways will have a lasting affect on many for years to come. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Virgil and Pinkey Franklin, her sister Wylodine Franklin and her loving husband Hubert Eugene “Buddy” Rawson. Barbara is survived by her children, David, Douglas (Susan), and Donald (Leah), grandchildren Jonathan (Kaela), Phillip (Shaye), Jacob and Olivia, brothers Carl (Eyvone) Franklin, Terry (Kay) Franklin, and many others whom she cared for and loved through the years. In lieu of flowers, the family request that any gifts be sent to the Shades Crest Baptist 2020 Challenge Fund.
Due to health concerns for many, the family will hold a private service and burial.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.johnsridoutselmwoodchapel.com for the Rawson family.
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