Barbara Ann "Boo" Gaskins

Celebrating the Life of Barbara Ann Custis Gaskins

Barbara Ann Custis Gaskins was born on July 20, 1958 in Melfa, Virginia to the late Charles "Doc" Custis and Eunice "Red Pete" Strand Custis. She peacefully departed this life on March 5, 2026, at her home in Melfa, Virginia.

She was raised on Virginia's Eastern Shore and attended Onancock High School.

Barbara was united in marriage to her devoted husband, Samuel Gaskins, with whom she shared a union of love, partnership, and family.

She dedicated many years of service as a custodian with Accomack Public Schools before retiring. Barbara was known for her strong work ethic, kind spirit, and the pride she took in caring for the spaces where children learned and grew.

A woman of deep faith, Barbara was a faithful member of Victory Tabernacle Church of God in Christ, where she served as First Lady and a missionary. Her love for the church and her commitment to serving others were reflected in the many ways she supported her church family and community.

Barbara had many passions that brought joy to those around her. She loved cooking and was especially famous for her sweet potato pies, which were always a favorite at church bake sales and family gatherings. She also enjoyed cleaning, crocheting, watching Tyler Perry movies, watching Gunsmoke, and supporting toy drives that helped bring smiles to children.

Barbara was preceded in death by her brothers Robert "Bobby" Custis and Alfonso Custis.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory her husband, Samuel Gaskins; her children: Akia (William) Colmon, Camiri (Ivey) Custis, Latisha Godwin ("Flukie"), and Lashana Kellam, Brandon Taylor, Aaron Holland, Tarell Taylor, and Leshawn Taylor. Barbara was a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren and was also blessed with four great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her siblings Norman (Sue) Custis of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Ronnie (Lorraine) Custis of Tampa Bay, Florida; sister in-laws, Viola Custis and Cathy Custis; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She also leaves behind special friends Mary Barnes, Julie Colmon, and Walt T., whose companionship and support meant so much to her and a special nephew, Shawn Floyd.

Barbara Ann will be remembered for her warm heart, her faith, her generosity, and the love she shared with her family and community. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched.