Barbara Jean Townsend

Barbara Jean Townsend obituary, Saginaw, MI

Barbara Jean Townsend

Barbara Townsend Obituary

Visit the Paradise Funeral Chapel - Saginaw website to view the full obituary.

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.

Paradise Funeral Chapel - Saginaw

3100 S. Washington Ave., Saginaw, MI 48601

Make a Donation
in Barbara Townsend's name

How to support Barbara's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Barbara Townsend's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more