Barbra Jean Keels

Barbra Jean Keels, lovingly known as "Ladybug," was called home to be with the Lord on March 9, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on March 27, 1950, in Portsmouth, Virginia, Barbra was the beloved daughter of the late Johnnie Griffin and Gladys Keels. She was educated in the Portsmouth Public School System and was raised in the Mount Hermon community. Barbra spent most of her life in Portsmouth, where she was known and loved by many.

Barbra worked as a school bus driver for Portsmouth Public Schools and later as a city bus driver for Hampton Roads Transit. She took pride in her work and was known for her dedication and strong spirit.

Later in life, Barbra became a faithful member of Third Baptist Church until her health began to decline.

Barbra was a radiant woman whose smile could light up any room. She was known for her warmth, humility, and grace. A devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, she carried a heart of gold and a deep love for her family. Affectionately known as "Ladybug," she found great joy in her children and grandchildren and believed strongly in the importance of family and togetherness. She encouraged her grandchildren to dream big and reminded them that the sky was the limit.

Barbra was preceded in death by her father, Johnnie Griffin; her mother, Gladys Keels; her sister, Delores "Nookie"; her brother, Johnny "Buttercup"; her aunt, Alice; and her nieces, Dee-Dee and Kylita.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving children, Arnice Keels and Maurice Keels; her grandchildren Willie Keels, Shanice Keels-Liwanag, Megan Keels, Tyrick Keels, Kevon Keels, Jacob Keels, Lamaya Barnes, Jamal Barnes, Latonya Southhall, and Maurice Hunter; ten great-grandchildren with one on the way; her grandson-in-law, Ernest Liwanag; her loving sisters Jean Monford, Joyce Ann Brown, and Vylinda Powell; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish her love, laughter, and legacy.

Though she is no longer with us in body, her love will remain in our hearts forever, just like the gentle reminder of a ladybug.