Barbara Jean Newman

Barbara Jean Newman, a cherished soul whose life was a testament to love, friendship, and spirited generosity, passed away on September 6, 2025, in Winchester, California. She was born on November 7, 1946, in Woodbridge, Virginia, to Mathew and Arlene Dowell. Barbara Jean's journey through life was one marked by joy, inspiration, and an unwavering commitment to the values she held dear.

She grew up in the Town of Occoquan, Virginia, where her roots ran deep and her love for Christ, family, and her sense of community were forged. A graduate of Jennie Dean High School in Manassas, Virginia, Barbara Jean carried the pride of her education throughout her life. She was an athlete and played a variety of sports, but had an immense love for basketball and softball. Her love of softball continued into adulthood, where she played competitively into her early 40s on various teams, where she became known as Choo Choo. Her nickname came because she could swing the bat with a force that would send the ball into the trees, and she ran the bases like an unstoppable train.

In 1964, Barbara Jean married the love of her life, Robert E. Newman, whom she met at Jennie Dean and who courted her for several years. After high school, they lived in Woodbridge, Virginia, where they would go on to live for more than 50 years and raise their three children. Barbara Jean was a resourceful woman; she worked when her family needed her to work, and she was a homemaker when there was a need as well. For over 30 years, Barbara Jean worked in a variety of administrative positions until she joined Fairfax County government, where she served as a payroll specialist until her retirement. This role showcased her meticulous nature and her dedication to supporting the backbone of local government.

Barbara Jean's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. Her Christian walk started at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Occoquan, Virginia, her family church that was founded by a cousin, Rev. Lewis Henry Bailey, in 1881. As a member of Ebenezer, she was very involved throughout her childhood and adulthood; as an active member for over 50 years, she helped to fundraise for the church, supported culinary needs, and served as financial secretary before she and Robert joined the First Baptist Church Chesterbrook in 1996, where she served the congregation as their First Lady. After Robert's retirement in 2006, they joined First Mount Zion Baptist Church in Dumfries, Virginia, where she served until they relocated to Winchester, California. She and Robert joined The View congregation in Menifee, California, where she was a member of the Senior Bible Study and a member of the 'GGs' Mothers Board of the church. Her spiritual life was filled with prayers and acts of kindness, as she embodied the Christian values of charity and love in every aspect of her life.

Her personal interests were as rich and diverse as her character. Barbara Jean found joy in activities such as playing bingo, engaging in competitive softball games, and challenging her mind with dominoes and jigsaw puzzles. Her talents extended to the kitchen, where she delighted in baking and cooking for her family and friends, leaving behind a legacy of cherished recipes and warm memories. Her charitable spirit shone brightly as a life member of the Occoquan Woodbridge Lorton (O.W.L.) Volunteer Fire Department's Auxiliary in Woodbridge, Virginia. Her actions, both big and small, made a profound impact on her community.

Barbara Jean was a straight shooter, authentic and candid. She loved to encourage others, always finding the right cards to send to uplift those around her. Those who had the privilege of knowing Barbara Jean will remember her laughter, her wise counsel, and her fearless approach to life. She was truly one of a kind, and her legacy will continue to inspire and guide her family and friends.

Family was the center of Barbara Jean's world, and she earnestly prayed for them daily. She leaves to cherish her memory one son, Emmanuel (Maria) of Winchester, CA, a daughter, Dr. Michelle Newman of Winchester, CA; her adoring grandchildren, Lauren of Stafford, VA, Nichella (Jacob) of Fort Irwin, CA, Enzo of Frisco, TX, and Marco of Winchester, CA; her six great-grandchildren, Montez, Nikolas, Joziah, Isaiah, Kyarra, and Elijah; two brothers-in-law, Lawrence and Samuel, two sisters-in-law, Shirn and Louetta, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Barbara Jean was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Robert Elsworth Newman, her beloved son, Erik O'Brien Newman, and her brother, Melvin Dowell, whom she remembered with deep affection and love.

As we bid farewell to Barbara Jean Newman, we celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the indelible mark she has left on the hearts of so many. Whether you knew her as Barbara, Barbara Jean, Jean, Jeanie, Choo Choo, Mom, Momma, Ma, Aya, Grandma Jean, or Sister Newman, her spirit will live on through the memories we cherish and the love she so freely gave. Barbara Jean's journey on earth may have come to an end, but her story, told through the lives she touched will continue for generations to come.