Barbara Jane Richardson

Barbara Jane Richardson, born on February 8, 1955, in Columbus, Ohio to Rev. Dr. Ellsworth B. Jordan and Bernice R. Jordan, left this world on January 6, 2026, at the Optalis Health & Rehabilitation Center in Canal Winchester, Ohio. She was a beacon of love and resilience, with a career that spanned over 50 years in the banking industry, culminating in her retirement in June 2017.

Barbara was a proud attendant of Linden McKinley High School and spent much of her life dedicated to her family and community. She was known for her affectionate spirit, often referring to those she loved as her “Love Bucket.” This term symbolizes the warmth and care she bestowed upon everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Her passions were diverse, embracing both simple joys and profound interests. Barbara found solace in listening to prayers and gospel music, and she cherished the time spent with her family. Her love for entertainment shone through in her enjoyment of favorite game shows, particularly Family Feud and America Says, as well as classic westerns. She also had a creative side, enjoying coloring and paint-by-number sets. Her adventurous spirit led her to travel with her best friend and life partner, Otis D. Hollman, Sr., who predeceased her on December 2, 2021. Barbara’s enthusiasm extended to football and basketball, a love notably highlighted during games featuring Julius “Dr. J” Erving.

A devout believer in the Gospel, Barbara found deep inspiration in reading her Bible, with the book of Philippians holding a special place in her heart. Her faith was a constant in her life, guiding her through challenges, particularly during her battle with dementia in her later years.

Barbara leaves behind a loving family, survived by her children, Heather L. Jordan, Jason L. Jordan (Evonna Jordan), Albert L. Milner II, and Erinn W. Nandera (partner Ralf Boniface). She was a proud grandmother to Avery M. Poole, Albert K. Milner, Christopher L. Milner, Nygeria Hicks, Zahir Hicks, and Rylee G. Boniface. Her legacy continues through her siblings, Jacqueline K. Spencer and Charles E. Jordan, and the family bonds she created, including Nathan G. Poole, whom she regarded like a son, and Crystal Milner, whom she cherished like a daughter. Additionally, Barbara held a special place in her heart for her entire family.

She is preceded in death by her siblings Penelope S. Harrington (November 6, 2013), Sandra L. Jordan (January 7, 2019), and Cynthia A. Jordan (January 19, 1973).

A memorial gathering to celebrate Barbara's life will take place on January 24, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Clintonville Chapel, located at 4341 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43214.

“When I turn 70, I’m going to be with the Lord”

--Barbara J. Richardson