Barbara Ann Harrison

Barbara A. Harrison (Adams), age 97, peacefully completed her earthly journey at her home on September 20, 2024. Barbara along with three of her siblings were born in Cleveland, OH to John Q. Adams Sr. and Eleanor (Stevens). Barbara grew up in Loveland, OH until moving to Dayton, OH after her parents’ divorce. Barbara graduated from Paul Lawrence Dunbar High School.

Barbara began her career as a licensed cosmetologist and owned her own shop at one time. But her primary duties were as a civil servant of the United States Federal Government. Barbara retired as a Supervisor of the Defense Electronics Supply Center (DESC) after 35 years of exemplary service.

Barbara gave birth to only one child, John P. Harrison Jr. who preceded her in death in 2020. Barbara was also preceded in death by her parents, John Q. and Eleanor; brothers, John Q. Jr. and William; sisters, Betty, Jessie, Geraldine, Mary Lou and Patricia. She is survived by two sisters, Judy Terrell and Shirley Gray; three granddaughters Risi, Mia (Preston) and Rion; three great grandsons, Keliah, Jerriah and Kion. She also leaves behind a host of family and friends.

Barbara may have “met a stranger” but she never left one. She became an honorary adopted mother, grandmother and aunt to many. Especially in Xenia’s East End Community, which is notably evident by an innumerous amount of people who simply call her “Gran”.

Special thanks to Rion Jewett, William Wilson, Robert Moore, Michael Mundy, Mike Byrd, Rochelle Harding, Jackie McPherson, William Strauder, Beverly Smith, Judy Crockett, Scottra Carr, Hospice of Dayton, Newcomer Funeral Home and New Life Christian Assembly. Extra special thanks to Chante Stewart for making the moments while doing my Granny’s hair for the last time a truly beautiful experience.

A memorial service and balloon release will be held on November 16, 2024 at 1:00 pm at New Life Christian Assembly, 436 East Main Street, Xenia, Ohio 45385. Repass immediately following. Flowers, donations or covered dish would be greatly appreciated.