Mrs. Barbara Elaine Smith

Barbara Elaine Smith, 69, the wife of Duane L. Smith, entered into eternal rest on Monday, January 20, 2020. Barbara was born on October 18, 1950, to the late Charles Edward Crawley Sr. and Vivian Geraldine Crawley. She was the third of six siblings, the eldest daughter. Barbara gave her life to Christ as a young adult and was a member of Love and Hope Christian Church. Educated in the Newport News Public School System and at Riverside School of Nursing, Barbara worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse providing compassionate care to many throughout her forty-year career before retiring in 2014. While she worked in various nursing settings, it was apparent early on, that her calling was to assist those affected by substance abuse and mental illness. Barbara's children would lovingly joke and call her "Dr. Quinn"; her medicine bag was always close by. Barbara will forever be remembered as a kind and loving person, always willing to help anyone in their time of need. She served in the Church Cuisine and Food Bank Ministry and enjoyed feeding those in need both at church and from her home as well. Barbara was also a wonderful baker, baking cakes for birthdays and other special occasions. Perhaps it will be the bunny cakes the children will miss the most, or maybe her world-famous cheesecake. For many years Barbara was a member of the I.B.P.O.E. of W., Anchor Lodge #1429; Newport News, where she enjoyed providing community service. It was here she met her beloved Duane. Barbara and Duane enjoyed life and loved spending time with their grandchildren. They enjoyed bowling and family trips and from time to time they would give lady luck a try. She was preceded in death by brothers; Thomas C. Crawley, Douglas L. Crawley, and Larry E. Crawely. She leaves to cherish her memory devoted husband, Duane L. Smith; one daughter, Felecia E. Carter; three sons, Melvin D. Carter Jr., Gerald L. Carter, and Michael J. Carter; nine grandchildren, Shatima E.Johns, Melvin D. Carter III, Yasmen M. Peartree, Quadriyan Cephas, Vivica G. Gray, Nicky Bowyer, Dylan Bowyer, Camren Carter, and Chantz Carter; three great-grandchildren, Nevaeh Reynolds, Madyson Best, and Melvin D. Carter IV; siblings Charles E. Crawley Jr. (Deborah), Annette M. Crawley, and Roy Braxton (Mary); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Mrs. Barbara Elaine Smith

October 18, 1950 - January 20, 2020