Elverna “Missie” Barbee-Cuffie

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Elverna “Missie” Barbee-Cuffie

Sunrise: July 28, 1948  Sunset: May 12, 2025

Elverna “Missie” Barbee-Cuffie was born on July 28, 1948, in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania to the late Squire Barbee and Ella (Burgess) Palmer-Barbee. She was the proud and loving mother of Kwai Anthony Cuffie. She was preceded in death by three brothers—Wesley, Delvert, and Randall Palmer—and a sister, Doris V. Johnston.

Missie was a woman of extraordinary depth, radiant faith, and unwavering devotion—to her family, her community, and her God. Known affectionately as “Missie,” she walked this earth with bold strength and an abundant heart that poured out love, wisdom, and grace wherever she went.

A 1966 graduate of Aliquippa High School, Missie went on to earn her undergraduate degree and dual certification in elementary and special education at Cheyney State University. Her professional career began in 1970 as a teacher with the Aliquippa School District, where she faithfully served for 33 years. During this time, she earned a Master’s Degree in Special Education from the University of Pittsburgh and a Reading Specialist certification from Duquesne University. She was also the proud owner and operator of Ella’s Deli in Aliquippa for a decade—another reflection of her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community.

Missie was the first Black woman Vice President of the Aliquippa School Board, a four-term Civil Service Board member, and a dedicated volunteer with the Boys 2 Men Afterschool Program. She was honored by the NAACP in 2016 for her lifelong service and advocacy for civil rights.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. At Greater Emmanuel A.M.E. Zion Church, she served faithfully as Deaconess, Chair of Trustees & Stewards, Usher Board member, Preacher Steward, and Treasurer. She was a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (Delta Tau Chapter, since 1968).

But beyond the titles and accolades, Missie was our MATRIARCH—strong, soft, steady, and deeply present. Her beloved son Kwai was the heartbeat of her life. She nurtured him with courage, faith, and love. In him, her legacy continues.

To know Missie was to be enveloped by joy, laughter, and wise counsel. She was a butterfly spirit—gentle yet strong, playful yet wise. Her life was a melody of resilience and grace, a testimony to the power of faith, family, and unconditional love. She chose life—over and over again—no matter the season. Her legacy is one of presence, purpose, and peace.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her devoted son, Kwai Anthony Cuffie of Aliquippa, PA; two brothers, Squire “Bay” Barbee Jr. of Beaver Falls, PA and Kenneth Barbee (Lutithia) of Montgomery, AL; one sister, Diane Barbee of Aliquippa, PA; one devoted nephew-son, Brian Barbee; godson, Jahri Barbee; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and six lifelong friends—Flora Mae Richardson, Adrian Bivins Ellerbee, Amanda “Doo” Stokes, Shirley Bell, Tina Smith—and bonus daughter, Crystal Dawkins.

“My faith and trust in God exceeds my mere existence. I love my family. Their well-being has always been my priority. I hope you understand—I’ve done all God has allowed me to do. I pray it’s enough. Peace be still.”