Barbara J. Kersey

January 26, 1934- February 19, 2012

“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Phillippians 4:13. Peace and rest at length have come All the days long toil is past and each heart is whispering, “Home, Home at last.” Thomas Hood. On February 19, 2012, Barbara passed away peacefully to be with our Lord. She had been surrounded by her close friends, Barbara Steward and Lucille Falzone, and her family. Barbara was preceded in death by forty-one days, her husband, James, Sr., “Popa.” After 61 years of being together, we pray they are happy having been reunited once again. She was also preceded in death by her parents Frank and Dorothy Jaykins, her brother, Richard and her sister Dottie, whom she loved and cherished dearly. Barbara was loved by many people. She had a special gift to share with her loved ones. She is survived by her last greatest love of life her great-grandchildren HeavenLeigh, Diamond and Abel. Nanny had a special love that was bigger than life for them. Raising her great-granddaughters kept her busy, but she always had time for hugs and helped them with projects. She enjoyed the outings with her great-grandson. Nanny was proud of them. She will be missed by them, they were her greatest love and enjoyment. They will carry with them each day her nurturing and teaching they shared together. Barbara was also survived by her children whom she loved and cared for in a special way; Barbara Steele, James (Dorothy) Kersey Jr., and Alice Elmtioui. She had 9 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren that she loved and shared wonderful moments. Barbara enjoyed life and had much to contribute. She enjoyed going to Church and singing a-long with the choir at Marcus Pointe Baptist, where she was a member. This was a blessing for her and one of the many “highlights” of her life. Barbara was a hard worker in all of her jobs. She was employed for many years at Pensacola Christian School. Afterwards she joined the Escambia County Sheriff’s Department, as the first female deputy. She took pride in her job and understood the law and what her duties would be in all positions she held. She participated in the Police Olympics. Barbara also continued her education at Troy University in Pensacola, while she was working. Her fellow classmates enjoyed her participation and seeing the commitment she had to achieve her goals. On her time off from work she and her many friends headed to the golf course. They had a lot of fun and many stories came out of those special golf outings. After 27 years of serving the community and protecting us Barbara retired from the Sheriff’s Department. We all love her and she will be greatly missed. The family would like to thank the Joyce Goldenberg Covenant Hospice for the special care they gave to Nanny. Their kindness, support, service and concern for her and the family was gratifying. We appreciate everyone on staff. Visitation will be on Thurs, Feb. 23, 2012 from 5:00 pm till 7:00 pm at Eastern Gate Memorial Funeral Home. Funeral services will be on Friday, Feb. 24, 2012 at 10:00 am at Eastern Gate Memorial Funeral Home with burial to follow at Eastern Gate Memorial Gardens. Condolences may be left at www.easterngatememorial.com.

Arrangements under the direction of Eastern Gate Memorial Funeral Home, Pensacola, FL.