Barbara Jean Burton McCall, a woman of unwavering faith and immense love, was born on May 2, 1938, to Nicholas and Mary Burton. She was the fourth of eight siblings and was predeceased by her beloved brothers and sisters: Rebecca Richards, Anabelle Kilcrease, Linda Joseph, Janice Pifer, Donald Burton, and Larry Burton. She is survived by her devoted sister, Dolores Moore.

On July 23, 1955, Barbara married the love of her life, Harold Harvey McCall, with whom she shared many beautiful years. Harvey preceded her in death in 2011, leaving behind cherished memories that she held close to her heart. She is survived by her four children: Vanessa M. Redd, Mark H. McCall, Venita J. Mitchell (Tony), and Guillermo Juan McCall (Shaina); grandchildren: Faith Redd-Walker, Simone Redd, Whitney Plum, Danielle Plum, Cedric McCall, Aaron McCall, David Mitchell, Deanna Mitchell, Alicia Rogers, Jaun McCall, Ramon McCall, and Skylar McCall; and great grandchildren, and many family members.

Barbara’s family faithfully attended church, and she accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior at a young age. Barbara had a deep love for the Lord and passed down the teachings of her faith to her children (through a treasured little white Bible), grandchildren, and many others. Throughout her life Barbara joyfully served in many churches and spiritual endeavors. Most recently she was a member of The House of the Lord in Akron, Ohio, where she regarded Bishop Johnson as her spiritual son. She was actively involved in facilitating a Recovery group, teaching Sunday school, and hosting home Bible studies.

Barbara was a tireless advocate for civil rights, a dedicated Civil Service worker, and an Eastern Star. As a member of AA celebrating 35 years of sobriety, Barbara was a living testament to the transformative power of resilience and hope. Overcoming personnel struggles led her to a dedicated path of advocacy and the pursuit of higher education at the remarkable age of 50. She earned her master’s degree in social work from Case Western Reserve and later established Miracle Village, a residential treatment center providing women and their children a chance to heal and rebuild their lives. She went on to found her own business “Beginning to Heal,” offering grief and addiction counseling and other invaluable services. She also worked in trauma counseling, providing support to victims of violence.

As we celebrate the life of Barbara McCall and the power of a surrendered life to Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit, we remember her as a beacon of love, faith, and perseverance. We remember her joy of music, dancing, and having fun. Her legacy will live on through the lives she touched and the hearts she warmed. May she rest in eternal peace, knowing that her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of her cherished children, family members, and a host of others she loved and nurtured.