Obituary
Guest Book
Ms. Barbara Jean Townsend passed away on Monday, August 25, 2025, in Saginaw, Michigan. Age 69 years. She was born on October 13, 1955, in Saginaw, Michigan, to James and Edna Coleman.
Barbara was raised in Saginaw, Michigan, and graduated from Saginaw High School, Class of ’74. She attended Saginaw Valley State University. Barbara loved Bingo, playing casino games, watching horror movies, listening to music, talking “riff raff” to her sons, and shopping on Shein. She had a heart of gold but would also “tell you like it is.” Barbara would give her last no matter what; she always helped those who were in need. If someone needed a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on, Barbara was always there. She was the essence of what “love” really means. She was the true definition of “the heart of the family.”
Barbara leaves to cherish her memory three sons, Quincy, James, and Troy Townsend; grandchildren, Kimari Mitchell and Diamond Forte, Mesa, Arizona, and Calliah Townsend, Belleville, Michigan; great-granddaughter, Harlym Forte; grandparents, Miles and Ruby Mason; one brother, Steve (Karen) Coleman; three sisters, Kathryn (Jerry) Banks, Shelia Rogan, and Marcia Coleman; many nieces and nephews; special nieces, Taneya Cage and Nicole "Nikki" Coleman; other relatives and friends including bonus son, Antoine Coleman; special daughters, Montavia Brackett, Fadya Townsend, and Kanisha Mitchell.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, James and Edna Coleman, and brothers, Howard and Richard Coleman.
The family would like to express special thanks to the Staff at Covenant HealthCare and Latoya Woods.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3100 S. Washington Ave., Saginaw, MI 48601

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more