Barbara Jones

Barbara Jean Jones, a vibrant bouquet of personality at the age of 75, took her final bow on the stage of life on February 13, 2024, in Washington, after a brief but valiant battle with cancer. She died peaceful and unafraid at around 5 a.m., when she usually had her early morning cup of tea. Born August 18, 1948, in Homestead, she was the beloved daughter of the late Virtee and Sherman Astrop. Barbara is also reunited with her loving husband Selbie Jones Jr., her cherished daughter Charity, and her siblings Madeline “Mamie”, Donna, and William “Porky.” Her surviving audience includes her adoring children Michael, Aaron, and Deanna; her sister and partner in giggles, Lorraine; four scene-stealing grandchildren; a fan club of family and friends; and two grand-cats that will miss her warmth, literally and figuratively. While Barbara had an eclectic playlist of jobs with J&L Steel, Seton Hill Daycare, and Duquesne Light Co., what she considered her life’s work was performing in the choir and most memorably, as a soloist. While you usually had to sit through a couple stories, what followed was singing that was powerful, heartfelt, and anointed. A devout member of the Church of God in Christ, her soulful praises will echo in the hearts of those she’s left behind. She embraced life's rhythms with her many hobbies, including cheering on the Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins, whipping up filling meals and delicious sweets in the kitchen, reading her Bible and giving impromptu studies, and playing a vast array of music that struck a chord in everyone's heart. Internment will be private. A Homegoing Celebration will be held at a later date. As a tribute to her heart for children and education, memorial donations can be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or DonorsChoose.org. William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd. 925 Allison Avenue, Washington, is orchestrating the final arrangements, ensuring Barbara's exit is as graceful as her life was vibrant. Let’s give a round of applause for a life beautifully lived and a woman dearly loved. The heart of a mother, the sense of humor of an 8-year-old boy, and the voice of an angel. Curtain down, spotlight off, but the memories forever encore.