With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Barbara Ann Harrod, a devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished friend, who left us to be with the lord on January 29, 2025, at age 81. Barb was the beloved wife of William W. Harrod Jr., a proud Air Force service member, and a loving mother to their two daughters, Traci and Sonja. She was a woman who demonstrated strength, love, and dedication in every aspect of her life.

Born on February 4, 1943, raised in a close-knit, family-oriented home to parents Burley E. and Alma B. Rose (Volley) in Johnstown, Pa.  Barbara graduated from Johnstown High School in 1960. Then she married William Harrod Jr. on July 6, 1968. She quickly embraced the responsibilities of both family and service life as the wife of an Air Force member. As her husband served in the Air Force, Barbara was the heart and soul of their household, raising their daughters and creating a warm and loving home wherever their travels took them.

Throughout their years together, Barbara and her family moved to numerous military bases, each time finding new ways to build lasting connections with the community, making friends, and continuing to support her husband in his service. She was a pillar of strength during long deployments, always putting her family first and ensuring her daughters had everything they needed.

In her own life, Barbara worked at BestForm after high school, at Northern Tier Credit Union during their base assignment in Minot, ND, and finally retired from Langley Federal Credit Union in Hampton, Virginia. Barbara enjoyed a variety of activities. She had a passion for bowling and dancing. Her spirit and joy were contagious, and she brought light to every room she entered. Whether on the bowling lanes or dancing, she was always the first to encourage others to join in the fun. She loved to dance, and no matter the occasion, she would be the first to hit the floor with a smile and an open heart. Barbara loved music, traveling with her family, and volunteering with the Morning Star Baptist Church youth ministry, she treasured helping to raise her grand and great-grandchildren.

Barbara's legacy is one of love, strength, and resilience. She was the glue that held her family together, ensuring her children grew up in a loving, supportive environment despite the challenges of military life. Her influence will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know her.

Barbara is survived by her children, Traci N. Smith(Harrod) and Sonja L. Harrod; five grandchildren: Breaun Harrod (Ravin), Terrance Harrod, William Harrod III, Christopher Smith, and Zoe Harrod; Six great-grandchildren: William Harrod IV, Sofia Harrod, Luna Harrod, Theodore Harrod, Saige Harrod, Ari Harrod; one brother, Dennis L. Rose (Donna); one brother-in-law, Gregory P. Harrod, Sr. (Romanita); one sister-in-law Brenda Gunby (Rose); one godson/nephew Michael D. Proctor, Sr.; one special niece Lisa M. Hellams(Rose), and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other family and friends who will miss her deeply. She is preceded in death by her husband, William W. Harrod Jr., her parents, and two brothers, Burley E. Rose, Jr. and Donald A. Rose.

Rest in peace, Barbara. Your love and light will continue to guide us.

Viewing will be held Sunday, February 23, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th Street, Newport News, Va. 23607. A funeral service will be held, 12 Noon, Monday, February 24, 2025 at Morning Star Baptist Church, 2717 N. Armistead Avenue, Hampton, Va. Interment will follow in Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Cemetery, Suffolk, VA.