Barbara Jean Forney went home to be with the Lord on Monday, February 12, 2018.

Barbara Jean Forney was born to the union of Lillian Graise-Cowans and Thomas L. Cowans on September 19, 1932 in Akron, Ohio.

As a graduate of Central High School’s class of 1951, Barbara was recognized as most talented due to her beautiful singing voice. She was often called upon to sing at special events, and ceremonies. During her marriage to Army Sergeant, Charles Forney, they were stationed in the United States as well as in France for a number of years.

Barbara accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at a young age and was baptized at Second Baptist Church. She dedicated her life to Him entirely as a young adult, and was a founding and life-long member of the Holiness Church of Christ Deliverance Center here in Akron, Ohio. She served faithfully in many capacities while ministering extensively as an anointed psalmist and evangelist. One of her favorite songs was “Surely God Is Able?”

Barbara worked in many different places over the years, most notably as a dental hygienist for Dr. Eldridge T. Sharp. She was later employed by the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority where she worked as the senior service event coordinator. In her later years, she was a foster mother. Barbara believed in community service and helping others, especially those less fortunate. She was faithful to participate in the feeding of the homeless and passing out vouchers until her health declined. She loved the Lord, praying, soul-winning, singing and shopping at her favorite stores.

On Monday, February 12, 2018, Barbara Jean Forney transitioned into glory and walked away from this life into the Kingdom of God and her loving Savior’s arms. We know she is in a better place now, singing in the heavenly chorus.

Barbara’s life and memories are survived, cherished and loved by: her sister, Betty Bowles; sons: Michael (deceased), Daniel, Ricardo, and John (all Forney’s), daughters: Holly (Shavers) Forney, Lisa Forney, and Faith (Kenneth) Shipp, and Joyce Lee (deceased). She is also survived, cherished and loved by grandkids, great-grands, nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and a host of other relatives, church family, and friends. Barbara ran her race and finished her course and was faithful until the end.