Obituary - Barbara Anne Simon Joseph

There are people in this world whose hearts shine so brightly that their love touches everyone around them. Momma was one of those rare and beautiful souls.

Barbara Anne (Simon) Joseph, born in Richmond, VA, on February 8, 1933, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving children on February 17, 2025. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, grace, and generosity.

Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Coleman George Joseph; her mother, Deabie Assaid Simon Bannister of Roanoke/Salem, VA; her father, John Simon of Mazraat Bani Saab, Lebanon; her stepfather, Carlisle R. Bannister; and her brothers, John Simon (Betty) and Norman Simon (Thelma).

Barbara is survived by her brother, Carlisle Bannister (Linda); her five children: Sandra Brown (Tom, deceased), Christopher Joseph (Lisa), Ron Joseph (Michele), Robin Hogge (Troy), and Leslie Sobel (Jeff). She was the proud grandmother of seven grandsons: Todd Brown (Mindy), Elliot and Cole Sobel, Evan and Colin Joseph, Nicholas and Alex Hogge; and one granddaughter, Kristie Brown Bowman (Andrew). She also leaves behind five adored great-grandchildren: Jordan and Katelyn Brown, Olivia and Elle Bowman, and Maverick Sobel (mother: Gabrielle Martson), all of whom she cherished deeply.

Barbara lived a life full of generosity, warmth, and kindness, never meeting a stranger. Her home was always open to everyone, whether it was her children's friends in need of a place to stay, a warm meal, or simply a gathering filled with love and laughter. She had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel welcome, loved, and cared for, treating her children's friends as if they were her own.

Barbara was especially known for her exceptional cooking. She could whip up delicious meals without ever needing a recipe. She was particularly famous for her Lebanese delicacy, Kibbee, earning her the title of "Kibbee Queen"; at St. Anthony Maronite Catholic Church, where she was a lifelong member. She was deeply involved in the annual Lebanese Food Festival held at the church and served in various offices within the church's Maronite Women’s Fellowship, demonstrating her dedication to her faith, family, and community.

Barbara's life was a testament to love, family, and service. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of poise, grace, compassion, and generosity will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

Rest in peace, sweet Barbara. Your love and light will forever shine brightly through the examples you gave to all of us.

The family extends a special thank you to Chorbishop John D. Faris, Monsignor George M. Sebaali and the clergy, the physicians who cared for her, and the AtHome Hospice team, as well as everyone who assisted in her beautiful eternal journey.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the St. Anthony Maronite Catholic Church Scholarship Fund:

St. Anthony Maronite Catholic Church
4611 Sadler Rd
Glen Allen, VA 23060

Visitation and Rosary will be held on Monday, February 24 from 4:00PM - 6:00PM at:

Bliley's Funeral Home
3801 Augusta Ave.
Richmond, VA 23230

Funeral; Divine Liturgy will be held on Tuesday, February 25 at 11:00AM at:

St. Anthony Maronite Catholic Church
4611 Sadler Road
Glen Allen, VA 23060

A traditional Lebanese meal will follow Mass in the church hall. All are welcome.

Interment will be held after the reception at:

Mount Calvary Cemetery
1400 S Randolph St.
Richmond, VA 23220

May her memory be eternal.