Barbara A Cherry

"Come unto me all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."

-Matthew 11:28

Barbara Ann Brown Cherry was born August 22, 1944 in Baltimore, Maryland. She

was the fourth of six children born to the union of the late Willie and Daisy Brown.

On Wednesday, November 9, 2016, early in the morning, Barbara peacefully

transitioned from this earthly life into eternal life.

Barbara's (Barbrann to family) early Christian training was in the family's church,

First Baptist. She had many fond memories and developed lasting friendships from

attending Sunday School and Church Services. As a life long member, she was

faithful in her adult years with preparation of foods for special church events.

Barbara attended Baltimore City Public Schools, graduating from Fairmount High.

After high school, Barbara ventured into the work world. Her work career lead her

to City Hospital (Bayview) Topps Dept. Store, and many years with the Dept. of Social

Services. Her work career ended at Towson University in the financial office after

suffering a debilitating fall.

Completing high school also brought love into her life. She met a special guy, James

Cherry. On August 4, 1965, Barbara and James were married in the family's Sinclair

Lane home. From this union, their beloved son, Troy was born. Barbara

unconditionally loved her "boy". His passing in December of 2011, not only broke

her heart, but dampened that Barbrann spirit.

In 1998, Barbrann became the godmother of a baby boy, Devin. He was an added joy

to her life. Troy was sometimes teased about being jealous of this baby boy. Barbara

and Devin's grandmother, Ann, raised him together. Barbara lovingly called him her

grandson and he lovingly called her "Nana".

Barbrann had many interests, one being hanging out with her buddies. They

affectionately called her "Cherry". They traveled together, partied and supported

each other in good and bad times. Cherry loved to cook for family and friends. Eating

her cooking made you want to "SMACK YOUR MAMA". She often hosted impromptu

gatherings. You didn't know whether you were going to get a down home or

gourmet meal. It didn't matter, just putting your feet under her kitchen table was

sheer pleasure.

Barbara's family was an important part of her life. The children of the Brown's family

(nieces, nephew, cousins) loved their "Aunt Barbrann". As little ones, they would run

from her. Her spicy language and a bunch of choice names left them and others in

awe. But they would soon grow to know Aunt Barbrann had her own unique way of

loving them and it was a lot of fun to be around her. The children enjoyed their

Christmas visits, sitting in the big chair and opening gifts was a dream come true.

Barbrann amassed a huge collection of Christmas Ornaments with different themes.

Seeing the display in the big window was a delight for everyone.

Barbrann was not overt with her love for family, but cared deeply, especially for her

sisters who lovingly cared for her during her illnesses. Her snappy comments could

sometimes bring hidden tears to Dora. Elaine (her youngest and the primary care

provider) and Barbrann continued the legacy of the Browns Sinclair Lane home. The

two of them had open doors always for family and friends. It is a second home for

many. Elaine would set the rules and chores for the house and Barbrann, most times

would reject or simply ignore them. Their sisterly bond gave them support for each

other happiness, laughter, battles and abundancy of fun. It was difficult for Elaine,

Dora and everyone to watch the spontaneity of Barbrann slip away.

Barbrann liked to project an image of tough love with everyone. She could be

mean, she could be sassy and rough. Family and friends saw past that facade. She

was one of the most caring and giving person to know. All you had to do was to

look at the actions of her heart. Barbrann took care of family members and friends

in and out of state. She took care of her mother for ten years, her goddaughter and

her ex-husband, James. She loved helping people, but never desired them to return

the favor.

Cherry did not have to know you to tell you what was on her mind. You never knew

what was going to come out her mouth. You were either shocked or fell to your

knees in laughter. Her inappropriate "Sign Language" became well known as her

trademark. Yes, even her doctor and nurses were subjected to it. She love it! Her

humor, her wise cracking jokes and quick and perfectly timed limericks were a

talent no one could copy.

We are saddened today for the loss of our fun-loving, sassy Barbrann Cherry. But

today, we also celebrate her life. Our deep sense of love, gratitude, respect and

admiration will be a reflection on the memories forever in our hearts.

Barbara leaves to cherish her memories, her devoted, loving siblings, Elaine Brown,

Dora Tapp, Joseph Brown (Rae), and Charles Brown (Gwen); nieces, Vikki, Yashica,

Terri, Rhonda, Joanna; nephews, Ricky, Sr., Dezzi, Darwynne, Curtis, Charles, Jr.; a

grandson, Devin; aunts, Jean Lewis and Geraldine Ivey, a host of great and

great-great nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends, also her posse

of friends who maintained watchful eyes on their "Cherry", Ann, Karen, Renna,

Allen, Leon, Alice, Rosetta, Blondie, Brenda, Tyrone, Kenny and Drapeford.