Barbara Mae Hamilton

Barbara Mae Hamilton was tenderly known as Ms. Hamilton, or Barbara in her neighborhood, or Bra-mae to most family and friends, and Brahm to her children.  Born on January 21, 1941 in Charleston, South Carolina to (the late) Joseph, Sr. and Bessie Simmons Hamilton, she came from a large family and was helpful and dependable amongst her sisters and brothers.  Spending her childhood in South Carolina, she later seized the opportunity to begin a new life in New York City.  After giving birth to her first child in Charleston, it was then that she began her journey as a wonderful mother in support of her own rapidly-growing family.

Barbara was a Homemaker, donating six children to the world; however, she selflessly sacrificed to raise more. As a mother, Barbara was always informative about the “who’s who” in the family, teaching the connection amongst its members. She never hesitated to open her home at any cost for time spent with her loved ones. Amongst any other places she has been known to live, family and friends will never forget 138 Cumberland Walk in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. While there, she continued her spirit of loving, giving, supporting and teaching valuable life lessons. For generations, her home has been “the home away from home”.  It was heartwarming for her to have visitors.  Everyone who knew her understood her passion for cooking; and having family gatherings gave her reason to cook a little more. Some experienced, when visiting, being able to count on her to offer a good plate of food and memorable conversation.

Barbara was known for being honest, witty and stern, yet respectful with unconditional love for her family.  She possessed a radiant smile, carried herself with pride, and was no quitter at maintaining her independence.  As a Christian, she kept her bible close and relied on God to take over to bring about good changes throughout her years of struggle.  She understood how to face adversity, ensuring her family was also spiritually invested which laid a foundation for unity.

Barbara valued education, although she sacrificed her own for the raising of her family.  She expressed pride and joy to those who put forth their greatest effort to succeed, and a profound respect for self-love, love for others, life, and the pursuit of happiness.

Barbara, being very independent, had a challenging time adjusting to her aging body. If she felt strong enough, she would get up and go for a walk, sit in the courtyard of her building with her beloved friends, or attend the community senior center to socialize.  Just her presence made a great impact on people’s lives of all ages.

On Wednesday, December 16, 2020, Barbara departed this life.  She was preceded in death by her parents: Joseph and Bessie; brothers: Ernest, James, Nathaniel and Joseph, Jr.; sisters: Jeanette Cradle and Terry Dupree McLean; her children: Debbie, Darryl, Lillian and Terrie; and grandson Quann.

She leaves to cherish her memory, two sons: Anthony and Latief; grandchildren: Shaneequa, Leroy, Shanice, Garren, Laquisha, Shannon, Messenji, Shante’, Andre and Jovon; great-grandchildren: Daisia, Shamari, Brianna, Josiah, Jayden, Andrew, James, Serenity, Unique, London, Lincoln and Genesis; great-great grands: Majesty and Kehlani; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, extended family, neighbors and friends.

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