Barbara Ann Maples, 69, of Asbury Park, formerly of Long Branch, NJ, passed away on May 22, 2020 with her daughter by her side. She was born in Clarksville, TN, to George E. Gilliam and Gerdoline (Thacker) Gilliam on February 8, 1951.
Barbara worked as a Quality Control supervisor and inspector for various companies and recently retired from Shore PC, after 15 years of service. She trained a lot of people who owe their skills and expertise to her tutelage. She enjoyed her family and friends and was a devoted Christian.
She was predeceased by her parents; brothers George and Leon and son Rodney A. Vann.
She will be greatly missed by her daughter Rhenita M. Gilliam (DeMarris), loving grandsons Gregory and Aaron and her youngest grandson Joshua. She is also survived by her longtime friend and roommate, loving sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews and cousins, coworkers and all who met her sweet spirit. Additionally, Barbara is survived by her close friend of over 40 years, Vivian Nelson and a close family friend Kimberly King.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the family, contact Rhenita M. Gilliam. Please feel free to donate in Barbara's name to the Susan G. Komen Organization.
*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic following nationwide social distancing all services are private. We appreciate your understanding.*
Dearest Rhenita and family,
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Your mom, Barbara, was a special woman whose laugh, heart, smartness and kindness were immediately apparent to anyone who had the good fortune to cross her path. I will forever be in her debt for giving me a haven as a child, a place to drag my trunk and ‘run away’ when things got too hard; a place that was like a second home to me for much of my childhood…and she never complained or pushed me out, just opened her arms wider. I can see her smile in my mind’s eye and it warms me. I can see her delight in her grandchildren. I can see her dancing at her big ’35’. And most of all, I can see the love she held for her family; that love will always be there as it never dies.
Ms. Barbara was my “Auntie” and contributed to my life during my formative teenage years. Her playful spirit, wise consult, and motherly affection influenced the woman I am today! I will NEVER forget her! God rest her soul and grant peace to her family. Love, Tammie
Aunt Barbara has always had a special place in my heart since the days she spent with us when she first moved up to New Jersey. She was like a big sister to me. I will miss our special relationship. My love and deepest sympathies to Rhenita and the rest of the family.
My baby sister Barbara was deeply loved and will be deeply missed. My love and condolences to the family, especially her daughter Rhenita and her three grandsons. May God bless you and bring you comfort in the knowledge that Barbara is finally at peace and that we will see her again some day. Love, Shirley
Dear cousin my heart is weeping for your loss, for our loss. Aunt Barbara was a wonderful stabilizing force over the years. She had a beautiful spirit. I truly enjoyed our conversations over the years. She had a wonderful sense of humor and always kept her sisters Shirley and Margaret smiling and shaking the heads. My father loved her like a daughter and truly enjoyed conversations and her laughing with too. She brought comfort and loving acceptance to our family and we will all miss her very much. May you rest In Eternal Peace, Aunt Barbara. ? Lovingly Always,
Ms. Baraba was a lovely woman, cherish you’re wonderful memories with your beautiful Mother. ???
My heartfelt sympathies. ❤
Lisa Bass
Condolences to Rhenita and Family,a beautiful person and wonderful spirit. Gone too soon. Rest in Heaven.??Wanda
I will miss you very much. I am looking forward to seeing you again one day.
Our condolences to you and the family on the loss of your beautiful mother.
I will forever love and cherish you mother.
To Rhenita and family, she was always a pleasant person no matter what was going on. She will be missed ?-Gail Clarritt