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Effi Barry Obituary
Barry died of leukemia at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, Md., said Justin Paquette, a spokesman for the hospital.
Effi Barry separated from Marion Barry in 1990, shortly after he was caught on videotape at a downtown hotel smoking crack cocaine with an ex-model and asking her to have sex with him.
Throughout her husband's three-month trial - during which federal prosecutors played the grainy 83-minute tape of the FBI sting - Barry sat in the front row of the courtroom with a hook and yarn.
"For certain our years have not been without controversy, have not been without difficulty," she said in an interview at the time. "But you take everything in stride. And getting through the trial is just something else to do. It doesn't sidetrack you."
Marion Barry was sentenced to six months in prison.
Shortly after the trial, Effi Barry moved to Virginia to teach health and sex education at Hampton University, her alma mater. The Barrys divorced in 1993, but she returned to Washington and supported him in his successful bid for a city council seat in 2004.
Barry praised his former wife in a news release Thursday, citing her success at securing city funding for AIDS awareness programs for the poor.
"The city is better off because of the great work she did in bringing hope to our neighborhoods," Barry said. "Effi was D.C.; we will all miss her."
A native of Toledo, Ohio, she met Marion Barry in 1976 when he was still married to his second wife and married him two years later, a few months before he was elected to his first term as mayor. She was divorced from jazz pianist Stanley Cowell.
A former model and school teacher, she actively supported various causes and was arrested during an anti-apartheid protest outside the South African Embassy in 1985.
She acknowledged over the years that she knew of her husband's problems with substance abuse and philandering from the start of their marriage.
"There are - there is - a caliber of female in this world ... (who) tend to gravitate towards a power figure. This kind of involvement is a necessary nuisance that the wife of a power figure has to deal with," she said in an interview with WRC-TV in 1987.
Barry learned she had leukemia last year and soon started campaigning for more black Americans to join the registry for bone marrow transplants.
She is survived by her and Barry's son, Christopher Barry, and her mother, Polly Lee Harris, both of Washington.
Copyright © 2007 The Associated Press
200 Entries
Mannis R. Samuels
January 12, 2017
I remember seeing you, at the downtown library in Washington, D.C., on my visit to do job research. You were participating in a book reading for local library kids, which I later found out was one of your "pet" projects, as DC's First Lady. Your smile and grace will forever define you, as a wonderful and kind person. May you rest in peace.
Leron Chambliss
December 5, 2016
Ms Barry did go through a lot with the Mayor she was a beautiful person. She endured alot of pain and humiliation during that period in her short life. But the good news is that she has another opportunity soon in the new system.
Valenda Newell
October 29, 2016
PEACE and COMFORT TO ONE...RIH....HOLDING ONE IN THOUGHT and PRAYER
NANCIE Purdie
August 17, 2016
Effi...God has called another, your son Christopher. Oh how I remember the years of fun he and Arvaz had growing up together! May he rest in peace.
How you can show support
Regina Bivens Logan
August 16, 2016
RIP BEAUTIFUL!!!
Karen Lee
August 14, 2016
Miss you, Effi, Love, Karen
EUNICE TALLEY
December 6, 2014
It is beyond amazement that death can not end a relationship. Here in 2014, you are still in our hearts, mines and souls. May God continue to Bless YOU.
Several days ago the news revealed that M. Barry had died and it brought beautiful thoughts of a beautiful and stately woman, you to my mind yet so surprisingly you had died prior to M. Barry in 2007. Very sad that i missed you in your flight to heaven despite thinking and remembering such a strong woman sharing your purpose that would enable other displaced women needing new wings to begin life husband less and rearing children in a single family home. Thank you for giving tirelessly of yourself.
YOU ARE TRULY MISSED BUT YOUR GIFT FOR LIFE IS HERE ENABLING MORE AND MORE SINGLE WOMEN TO BE THE BEST THEY CAN BE AS PARENTS.
RIP.
Cherry Arnold Lowry
November 24, 2014
Effi I met you when you were pregnant with Christopher & I was moved by your elegance & grace. Yes Christopher she is your Angel now. May God continue to bless and keep you Christopher
and may you continue to be the son your mother wanted you to be.
Tee Davis
November 23, 2014
Well Effie, today I heard of Marion's passing. It was such a wonder pleasure to have met you and to have worked with you and Marion in your Washington DC home search. Now, you are each in God's hands and I thank God that he shared you both in my life and the lives of so many others.
rick bledsoe
November 23, 2014
I resided in DC during those and EFFIE.BARRY was the queen of black camelot the city of the good the bad and ugly EFFI added the beautiful rest in peace my queen.
Gilbretta Ashton-Jones
November 23, 2014
Remembering you today as a woman of love & grace. Rest with God (RWG).
Angela Thompson
November 23, 2014
God Bless such a graceful and beautiful soul. You are truly missed.
July 7, 2014
May God and his Angels wrap their arms around Ms. Barry. As the First Lady of Washington, DC, she will live forever in the hearts of its citizens and throughout the world!
You truly were grace under fire!
Sharon Lee
August 4, 2011
As a fellow teacher I was saddened to hear of the passing of Ms. Barry. I hope you can find comfort from The Holy Writings that promises he will wipe out every tear from your eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. May heartfelt prayers console you always.
David Paschal
April 23, 2011
It has been almost four years since the death of the former Mrs. Effi Barry, and I can't stop thinking about how wonderful of a person she was. I pray for her even now that she is resting in peace after all she endured as the former first lady of Washington, DC.
December 2, 2010
"May the God of comfort, who comfort us in all our trials bring you comfort at this time."(2Cor.1:3,4)
November 3, 2010
A woman of stature who could turn the head of Venus di Milo if Effi walked by. A truly great American.
Nourbakhsh, Maryland
September 29, 2010
Please accept my sincere condolences during this time of your loss. May you find comfort in knowing that God "is near to those broken at heart and those crushed in spirit he saves." (Psalm 34:18)
T. SLATER
September 9, 2010
EFFI BARRY WAS AN ELEGANT LADY OF GRACE AND INTEGRITY. WASHINGTON, DC HAS LOST THE AURA OF A PRECIOUS JEWEL.
shontae carr
November 14, 2009
shontae carr
KJ
August 19, 2009
Sorry to find out that you already gone as I tried to learn about you as biographical right after watch the Marion Barry documentary. My heart goes out to her family. Effi, you're true class act in whole time.
Anita
August 14, 2009
I often think of you Effi...you were truly the Queen of all Queens. I recently watched the Marion Barry documentary and just wanted to say I have great admiration for you..always. You were so elegant. I went through alot in my marriage but I was not in the public eye. God Bless you. You are the true HERO in that documentary. Such CLASS...SUCH CLASS.
Keisha
August 13, 2009
As I sit here watching "The nine lives of Marion Barry", I am looking at his wife and I feel so drawn to her...as if I know her. I was so compelled by the familiarity of her face that I began to google her only to realize that I too had her as a professor at Hampton University! What a great teacher she was...and very down to earth. I guess that is where the detachment came from. This beautifully statuesque, yet "door next door" professor couldnt be the same as this high profile woman that I was seeing on tv. I want to say may GOD bless you and keep you in Heaven! Your LEGACY will always remain instilled in each and every one of your "Marching Pirates"!!! HPER Major 1995-1999
Shontae
August 13, 2009
When Ms. Barry passed away I was sad to hear the news because she still had many years left before her. I had the privilege of having her as an instructor at Hampton University in 2003/2004. She was such a unique teacher and made the class feel comfortable to have "real life discussions". She was such a classy woman with a warm spirit. After recently watching the documentary about Marion Barry, have I realized all that she had went through but she always seemed to hold her head up high and maintain her dignity throughout her marriage. Ms. Barry you are a true class act and enjoyed being your student. May God continue to bless you and your family.
Lynette Carr
February 20, 2009
You and your family will be in my prayers daily, always remember God is in control. He brought you to it and He will see you through it. He carries us we cannot carry ourselves. God Bless you all
Africa Costa
February 7, 2008
My deepest sympathies to the Barry family. I had the pleasure of being in Mrs. Barry's health class as a Freshman At Hampton University. She was a sweet and elegant woman who will be sorely missed!
Tashiana Scott-Cochran
December 22, 2007
I had the good fortune to have Ms.Barry as an instructor at Hampton University in 1996.
She was honest,courageous, giving and loving to a bunch of kids who didn't know much about the dangerous that could be present in an unsanitary world. In that summer, there was so much more going on than just health class. I am so thankful for Ms. Barry as an instructor and as a woman of fantastic courage. May we be reflections of her.
Mrs. Wm. A. Miller Jr.
November 25, 2007
Rest Well Queen, and know that you are loved.
The Family of William A. Miller Jr.
Cheryl Cochran
November 16, 2007
I attended Hampton University in 1963 with Effi Slaughter. We met on the first day of college as freshman and lived in Kennedy Hall. We were dear friends and spent a great deal of time together(after classes of course) with four (4) other dear freshman students.
To Christopher, I want you to know that I knew your mother when she was much younger than you are now. She was a beautiful, gentle, shy, caring, loving and articulate young woman. She was a great admirer of beauty and a wonderful lady. I will remember her kindness and caring the rest of my life.
Kashaheru Tyehimba
November 8, 2007
Proud woman who believed in standing by her man. Effie, a friend and woman of integrity
Thank You
Kashaheru
Chenita Amey
October 8, 2007
You were a great first lady for Washington, DC
May you now rest in Peace
Terrence Warren
October 8, 2007
Thank you for always believing in me and encouraging me during the tough times. Because of you, I am a better person. I will always love you for that.
Jacqueline Daniels-Renwick
September 30, 2007
You have my deepest sympathy. I know what you are going through. My mother passed away on the exact same day and of the very same illness. Effi and my mother, Marie, are no longer suffering such pain. They are free and watching us as angels from above.
Scotia McLean,RN
September 26, 2007
May God continue to bless you and your family .
DENISE KING
September 24, 2007
To Ms. Effi Barry's Family:
Everyone will remember her kindness and that beautiful smile; Ms. Barry will always be a part of you, because she remains in your hearts.
Hold your heads up high because you now have another guardian angel watching over your family. It is difficult now; but seek comfort in knowing that she is in a better place than any of us right now. Give thanks to God for the opportunity that was given for everyone that came in contact with her to know the importance of giving respect and honor to a beautiful black queen that stayed strong regardless of the obstacles thrown her way. No longer is there a need for sorrow, because she is rejoicing in Heaven.
Greg Gilmore (Calvin Coolidge Alumni)
September 24, 2007
To the family:
We mourn the loss of Effi Barry.
We celebrate the life and all the examples she set, on how to be a daughter, wife, mother, friend, and citizen.
We will miss you but will never forget you.
Rest.
Chifornia Cox
September 22, 2007
To Effi S. Barry's Family, I would like to extend my deepest sympathy.
It was my joy to know Effi, we met regarding our interests in travel and were friends. Effi left a great legacy of which you can always be proud. She helped others in many ways as she traveled along her way.
May you be comforted in knowing that Effi will be remembered and cherished.
Elfreda Aye
September 20, 2007
Effie made us proud to be from DC , even so for me who came to this city from Africa 20 something years ago.This remarkable first lady displayed such elegance and poise and class. Rest in peace our mother , sister and friend.
Mary Cooper
September 20, 2007
Our deepest sympathy to the family of such an elegant, graceful, virtuous person. Wishing you all comfort, peace, and God's blessings in this time of sadness.
Martha Payne/Odemns
September 20, 2007
To Mayor M.Barry and Family, The Queen have gone To meet the King And to walk the street of gold The body is gone But the soul live on in that sweet land on high We love MRS.EFFI S.BARRY. Evangelist M.E.Payne/Odemns, and Brawner,Odemns Family of D.C ,MD. VA.
willard witherspoon
September 20, 2007
She embodied Grace and maintained a dignity that transcended politics. I will always admire her courage and resolve.
Joanne Alford
September 19, 2007
It was my pleasure and good fortune to have known such a sweet lady as Effi. I enjoyed hearing the stories of her friendship with my sister Nancie Purdie and all of their escades while they were in college. Effi exemplified the word "Lady". She was so special. I shall never forget the time and energy she showed my daughter when she was trying to decide on a college selection. Effi talked candidly with her when we visited Hampton Univ. and it helped my daughter tremendously. Our prayers go to her mom and Christopher. You had a wonderful daughter and mother. May God continue to bless both of your lives.
Carolyn Y. Russell
September 19, 2007
To Effi S. Barry's Family,
God has another true Angle up in Heaven with pure White Wings. Just let God wrap His loving arms around you and He will give you peace. My prayers will be with you.
Jannie Robinson
September 19, 2007
Effi was a dear friend and confidant. We worked together at Hampton University and was in graduate school together at George Washington University. She was a wonderful person and she is missed.
LaTaunya Matthews
September 18, 2007
The embodiment of beauty and grace. May God Bless you and your family and may you Rest In Peace!
veronica WILLIAMS
September 17, 2007
ToMrs. Slaughter; May God keep you and give you peace in the midst of the storm. You did a wonderful job with your only child we met at a fashion show in June of'82 when we both shared the same beatician she was always poised and regal in her mannerisms and at all times made those around her feel just as important as she was to the people of Washington DC. May God continue to Bless you and your family in your time of great loss. You loved your daughter but God loved her best.
the Williams and Belton Family
veronica WILLIAMS
September 17, 2007
To Christopher; I had the pleasure of meetig you mom one day at our doctor's office she was always kind and considerate of those around her we also shared the same hairdresser at that time. She will be greatly missed and now she is at rest and peace with no more pain or discomforts. May God Give you peace in your time of such great loss, there is no greater pain to suffer than the loss of one's mother your everlasting cheerleader and confidant. Hold on to all that she has given you in this life and always know that she will be with you until the end of time. God Bless you and your father, Mr. Marion Barry.
Glinda Manley
September 16, 2007
Effi, you were so dear to me and such a regal woman right til the end. I have loved knowing you and cherished our friendship over the many years. I'll always remember your grace and dignity that came so naturally. You will be missed but never forgotten. I will see you again my F.O.C. sister.
Nancie Purdie
September 16, 2007
MY WHAT A HOMEGOING CELEBRATION!!!
I would never have missed this historical occasion!!
So befitting for the Lady she was. I praise God for the years of friendship that we shared. Christopher you "done us all good". Bless you and all the things you reflected upon, it now means you gotta show what you know! Let her voice forever ring in your ear.
Duan Marbury-Wooten
September 16, 2007
My condolences goes out to the whole family.
God Bless
Tyree Amala
September 16, 2007
May The CREATOR be pleased with Ms. Effie Barry.
As a Washingtonian, who came into adulthood in Dec 1978, I remember this wonderful Queen.
As her son said yesterday, many compared her to Mrs. Jackie Kennedy in reference to her poise and grace.
It was not a fair analogy, for Ms. Effie Barry was regal, a Queen, and the original First Lady of Washington, DC who won the hearts of the people of Washington DC.
Rest Well Queen, and know that you are loved.
Tyrone Tyler
September 15, 2007
As a former DC resident, I have always had respect for Effi Barry. Christopher you should know how beautiful your Mom was and loved so much by all residents of the District. I have nothing but mad love and respect for your Mom. Effi is and always will be the only First Lady of DC as far as I'm concerned. My prayers are with you, your Dad and the rest of the Barry-Slaughter families.
Elvah Donald
September 15, 2007
To Effie Barry's Family: May you be comforted by the way she lived her life in service to others. She was always available for noble causes in her hometown of Toledo, Ohio and now she has answered the highest calling! May she rest in peace.
Deb
September 15, 2007
The empitome of LOVE, beauty, grace,and meekness was Effi. May the Lord give much love and peace in abundance to the family.
I noticed her on many occasions, while living in the same neighborhood, even in her quiet stance, she would gleam...thank you Mrs Effi S. Barry.
Gloria Salisbury
September 14, 2007
To Chris
Remember when you lived in Hampton and you thought that you were out of your moms reach and I always showed up ? Well your mom left agents on the ground to still treat you like a child. I am one of them. You always gave me hugs and asked about my son Jamal. She treated me like a loved child also. Take good care of your grandmom and father. my family is praying for you.
Matthew,Gloria,Jamal,Malika Salisbury
Shirley and Ken Ford
September 14, 2007
To The Family of Effi Barry - Our heartfelt prayers are with you now and forever.
We first met Effi while our childred attended Tots Development School. Travelle, our daughter and Christopher were in the same class. We remember so well the special "Tots" programs and children birthday parties hosted by the parents. As parents we shared so many happy times watching our "tots" grow up as smart and confident future leaders. We lost contact after the kids finished Tots, but just last year I had an opportunity to get reacquainted while riding the Metro to work. We did some catching up on the many years and looked for each other every morning so we could sit together and talk. Effi shared her health challenges but most of all she shared her faith in God. I feel so very blessed to have been able to renew our acquaintance. From the Tots Days to just last year, Effi has and will always be a special blessing to everyone she embraced.
Shirley and Ken Ford
September 14, 2007
To The Family of Effi Barry - Our heartfelt prayers are with you now and forever.
We first met Effi while our children attended Tots Development School. Travelle, our daughter and Christopher were in the same class. We remember so well the special "Tots" programs and children birthday parties hosted by the parents. As parents we shared so many happy times watching our "tots" grow up as smart and confident future leaders. We lost contact after the kids finished Tots, but just last year I had an opportunity to get reacquainted while riding the Metro to work. We did some catching up on the many years and looked for each other every morning so we could sit together and talk. Effi shared her health challenges but most of all she shared her faith in God. I feel so very blessed to have been able to renew our acquaintance. From the Tots Days to just last year. Effi has and will always be a special blessing to everyone she embraced. Another Angel Watching Over Us.
September 14, 2007
Mrs. Effi Barry had it all:
Style,strength,elegance,courage, beauty, brains, and much more all packaged in 1 remarkable women.
It was ONLY fitting that you lay in repose in the Wilson Building in a City that you loved, and a City that LOVED YOU!
Rest on Ms. Barry, and Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to society.
Charlene Goldman
September 14, 2007
I know it hurts to know that Effi Barry is no longer with us. She is with our Lord. HE wants her home with him. It's ok to cry. Effi was given a number and it was her time to be with God. One day, we all will be with her as well as with many beautiful other angels.
T. Gilmore-Moye
September 14, 2007
To Christopher and Family:
This is to convey my deepest sympathy on the passing of your Mother. What a class act and positive role model she was! I feel honored to have known her through working in the District Government. When her services were needed, she was there. I am so glad that her journey here on earth crossed my path. May God bless you during this time of bereavement and always.
Diane Geter - HIV/AIDS Admn.
September 14, 2007
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
BARBARA ANN MITCHELL
September 14, 2007
IN MEMORY OF A GREAT LADY WHO SHALL BE MISSED BY ALL.
Tara Barnes
September 14, 2007
To Chris and Family,
Please accept our deepest condolences for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love,
Linda, Grandma, Tara, Pearl and Jay
Connie Coleman
September 14, 2007
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007
Aliyyah Ferguson
September 14, 2007
My heart and prayers go out to the Barry family. May God be with you all in your time of need.
Elaine Pankey
September 14, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the Barry Family. May you all have comfort in knowing that your loved one "The First Lady of Washington, D.C." has received her "WINGS" hallelujah! No more pain, no more suffering, comfortably resting in the arms of the Lord. I know they were doing some celebrating up there in the Pearly Gates of Heaven on Sept. 6th. CLASS, DIGNITY, and GRACE are the three words that I think of when I hear Effi Barry's name. She will be truly missed, but never forgotten. God Bless!
Kimberly McMillian
September 14, 2007
May the lord God be our provider and have mercy on us. To the Barry family, I hope you find peace and comfort in knowing she is home free now.
Floyie Shuford
September 14, 2007
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Robin Strickland-Brown
September 14, 2007
I met Mrs. Barry as an 8th grader at Winston JHS in DC. She was there to speak to the class during our graduation. I recall telling her what an honor it was to meet her and she replied "No, I am honored to meet you young lady." She was elegant and graceful but, she had her hands full with Christopher (a toddler).(haha) He was all over the place but, she remained composed until he quieted down. I was in awe of her! Years later I recall watching her on the news and seeing the same regal elegance no matter what was going on around her. She was a queen, a strong sista' and a wonderful human being. I know that she will be missed in your lives. God bless your family in your time of grief.
ronald webb
September 14, 2007
My prayers go out to the Barry family in their greatest time of need. Peace be with you both. Stay strong on the journey.
RM Webb
Bruce
September 14, 2007
MY CONDOLENCES GOES OUT TO EFFI BARRY FAMILY
MAY GOD STRENGTHEN YOU CHRISTOPHER, YOUR FATHER AND YOUR GRANDMOTHER DURING THIS DIFFCULT TIME.
Orandra Cotton
September 14, 2007
Our deepest prayers go out to Mr. Barry and Christopher. Mrs. Barry had a profound effect on the city of Washington, DC and set the standard for all first ladies to come. Know that heaven opened up its celestial arms and accepted home an angel. The Cotton Family, SE Washington, DC
Wanda R. Nyamesem
September 14, 2007
Effie you were such a classic First
Lady. You had a wonderful smile. I had the pleasure of meeting you a few years back at a area Beauty Salon. What a delight to have met you. You will always be my first lady. There will never be another. God Bless Your Family.You will always smile on Washington,DC with class.My mother just loved you and the Former Mayor Barry.
Brenda J. Chambers
September 14, 2007
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Joyce King-Mangum
September 14, 2007
My deepest sympathy goes out to the Barry family.
Last year I had the pleasure of seeing Mrs. Barry in a fashion show in Greenbelt MD, she walked that runway with so much class and grace. Her smile brighten the whole room.
Ingrid Johnson
September 14, 2007
To the Family:
May the Lord bless, keep and comfort you during this time of sadness. I extend my heartfelt prayers and sympathy to each of you.
Lakeshia Arrington
September 14, 2007
Such a wonderful lady DC own princess I will never forget how she held her head high threw everything. I feel she has EARNED her place in heaven! Rest beautiful lady rest.
Nikki Howard
September 14, 2007
On behalf of my family, we send out our deepest sympathy in this time of need. A great woman, and an outstanding legacy. God Bless, you are in our prayers.
September 14, 2007
Thank God for you and being all that you cold be for your husband,son and people all over the land.
your friend GA
Gloria Stevenson
September 14, 2007
My Prayers go out to the Barry family. Ms. Barry was a woman of
Grace and good charater. She will be missed.
PATRICIA SMITH
September 14, 2007
TO THE FAMILY OF EFFI BARRY.
MAY GOD COMFORT YOU AT THIS TIME, AS A LADY OF GRACE HAS FALLEN. SHE LEAVES A GREAT LEGACY!
Gwyn Jackson
September 13, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the family of Effi Barry as you navigate your way through such a devastating loss.
Effi, you worked your wonderful magic on all of us as you carried us through happy and sad times all those years ago, always with class, dignity and grace, never revealing the great personal sacrifices you made. Now you are peaceful and cancer free. Take a well-deserved rest.
Lenroa J. Simpson
September 13, 2007
My heart felt prayers to the family. I will always remember Mrs Barry because of classy way. She seemed so gentle. She was the first, First Lady of DC that I knoew. Praise God Family.
I was there this evening (The Wilson Building) and I took picutres, to give my grand children a bit of history.Loveu2
TIANA MARTIN
September 13, 2007
THE FIRST LADY OF WASHINGTON, DC, WILL ALWAYS BE IN OUR HEARTS AND MINDS.
Nichelle Moore
September 13, 2007
Effi was a class act and will be missed.
JOAN SMITH
September 13, 2007
I met Mrs. Barry one year ago today. I am a Poll Worker and when Mrs. Barry came through the door, I said to my self, boy she looks just like Effi Barry. She was emmaculately dressed; simple but fashionable, poise and graceful. After she casted her vote and came to the ballot box where I was working, she gave me such a wonderful compliment, she congratulated me for the outstanding job I was performing and she thank me for a job well done. After her compliments, I had the opportunity to say to her in a quiet whisper, Has anyone ever told you that you look like Effi Barry? She leaned over and whispered back in my ear, I am Effi Barry....I was so shocked that I instantly became just like a little kid in a candy factory and asked her for a hug. She not only hugged me but it was the biggest and the most sincere bear hug; she gave good hugs. I saw her again when she cast her vote during the Ward 7 Special Election for the council seat left vacant by Vincent Gray. She always made you feel that you were important the the job you were doing for the city was very much appreciated. I was devasted when I heard of her illness and then her demise. I will miss that quiet demeanor,smile and her kind words. She was TRULY our one and ONLY real FIRST LADY!!!! I will continue to keep her mother and son in my prayers. Another angel has gone back to the creator and watching over DC. I loved her and admired her doing her battle with her illness. SHE HAD CLASS AND REPRESENTED THE OFFICE SHE HELD WITH DIGNITY AND POISE. Dear Effi, May the Lord grant you the peace you so deserve and may you find rest in His arms. Lovingly yours the Smith & Woods family of Ward 7.
Korcoran Smith
September 13, 2007
To the Family of Effi Barry,
I respected and admired Mrs. Barry for her class, beauty and character. She was very friendly and beautiful. The world was better because she was in it. I will miss her dearly. I pray that Those who follow her can carry the weighty legacy she leaves. Let Christ be your strength in this time!!
(formerly of St. Timothy's Episcopal Church, Alabama Ave. S.E. D.C.
September 13, 2007
robert wiggins
2521 q, st, se,
washtngton, dc.
Geneva Coleman
September 13, 2007
To the Barry family, my heart goes out to each and every one of you. I reside in Md, but I am a true Washingtonian and Effi was in deed a beauty and she possessed reserved, but strong fighting spirits, she was a remarkable First Lady, may she rest in peace, no more sorrow, no more pain....you have earned your wings, fly away my big Sista!!
Karla Butler
September 13, 2007
As a resident of DC, I'd like to extend my deepest sympathy to the family. I admired her and she was a very classy lady.
The Cunningham Family
September 13, 2007
You have received your wings, you will suffer no more. Rest in peace sweet Effi (DC's First Lady)
Ron K Shorts
September 13, 2007
My Deepest Sympathy goes out to the Effi Barry Family....
September 13, 2007
You were a model of a good woman. You will always be remembered for your warm heart and grace.
September 13, 2007
Mrs. Effi Barry was a strong black woman with lots of CLASS. Her joy for life transmitted where ever she took her smile and the sparkle in her unforgettable eyes. Above all, I have thanks for the life of a woman that I'm proud to have known and loved. In your loss and sorrow, may God's word comfort and uphold you, even as we grieve with you and pray for you. Please except my condolences on the loss of such a Great Woman. She will be missed dearly.
Clara Briscoe ( Temple Hills, Md. )
Billie-jean Holmes
September 13, 2007
Born and raised in Washington, DC I grew up learning about and/or knowing all of the public officials but she [Effi Barry] was different; she was our Jackie Kennedy. Through all the adversities that crossed her path before, during, and after being in the limelight of the Barry Administration she continued to be a strong woman. I never met Ms. Barry but did see her around Washington, DC w/former Major Barry. She will be so missed. Her spiritual admirations, her love of her son, love of life, love of self, but mostly love of GOD will never leave those of us who know and/or know of Ms. Effi Barry.
Tawaunna Jones
September 13, 2007
You live with style and class. You showed us strength in the mist of a storm. you spirit will be missed.
BEVERLY DESKINS
September 13, 2007
YOU WERE TRULY A GREAT WOMEN AND WILL BE AN ICON TO MANY TO COME. HOPE YOUR JOURNEY WILL CONTINUE ON.
REST IN PEACE.
Thelma Wright
September 13, 2007
You will always be special in our hearts. We will never forget u. Your love and kindness.
Beryl Gilmore
September 13, 2007
Effi, you were always so dignified and elegant. We will miss you at the Hampton reunions. May God have and hold you forever.You led a wonderful and rewarding life.
A fellow "Pirate" and Delta sister
Aquanetta Knight
September 13, 2007
I am truly amazed by the extraordinary woman that Effi Barry was, and although I never got the chance to meet or know her, I admire and respect who she was and what she stood for. My prayers are with her family, and most of all her son. May God bless all of you in this time of sorrow.
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These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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