Barbara Faye Britton transitioned from this life Sunday, November 5, 2023.
God called her name, and she answered.
Barbara Faye always said, “We are on a journey, walking down life’s lane, we cannot step out of line, and we cannot change places with anyone. You keep up the march until you are finished, and your name is called.” Barbara heard that call Sunday November 5, 2023.
Barbara, (Faye, as she was affectionally called by close friends and family members) transitioned to another journey. Hopefully, she met up with family members who has marched on before her including her parents, Walter, Sr. and Cearria Britton, nine sisters, Martha Britton, Mildred Britton, Carnette Britton (who died in infancy), Paris Bryer, Catherine Young, Elnora Twyne, Charlese Booker, Milease Wells and Marva Britton Pinkney and one brother, Walter Britton, Jr.
A time to be born: She was born January 5, 1947, bringing up the rear of 15 children in Blackshear. This would be her home for the next 18 years.
A time to learn: Lee Street School was Barbara’s first learning experience, attending elementary and graduating high school in May of 1965. Upon high school graduation, she entered Fort Valley State College where she earned her degree in business administration.
A time to seek God: Religious learning was a part of Barbara’s life from her early childhood. At a young age she joined Greater St. James African Methodist Church in Blackshear. Religious studies would be a part of her life until her illness prevented her physical presence in church.
A time to move on: With college behind her and a degree in her purse, Barbara left home to see the world. She set her sights on Jacksonville, FL. where she landed her first job of employment with Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance. After some lapse of time, she decided Jacksonville was not big enough for her thoughts and talents, so off to Chicago she flew. No job, just a thirst for more, and ‘more’ she found. Bankers Life and Causality Insurance Company opened their doors and heart to Barbara and provided employment for the next 10 years.
A time for transition: After a long illness, Barbara could no longer fight the debilitating disease of Sarcoidosis.
She leaves behind three sisters, Mamie Turner, and Charlotte Simpson both of Blackshear and Billye Britton (Clyde Rivers), Woodstock, and one brother Carl Britton (Mary), Monroe. There are too many nieces and nephews to name individually, however, these special family members have gone beyond the call of duty, remaining in touch with Barbara constantly. They called her, made her laugh and kept her informed. Nicholas and Steve Wells were especially dedicated in seeing to her needs. Steve straightened out her pc when she pushed the wrong buttons and Nick being her own “Tool time Tim” making necessary house repairs.
Barbara’s failing health eventually called for Caregivers to assist in her care. Natasha Wells, Mildred Fox, Mechalene Lindsay and Regina Dozier have been a dedicated presence in Barbara’s home for almost a year. The family is most grateful for their undaunted dedication.
A celebration of her life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, November 11, from the Mt. Ararat Baptist Church in Jacksonville, FL. Pastor Darrel L. Gilyard Sr. will offer words of comfort with family tributes by Billye Britton and Steve Wells.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.jefralinandsons.com.
J.E. Fralin & Sons Funeral and Cremation Services of Jacksonville, FL, is in charge of arrangements.
