Ethel M Barr

Ethel Marie Story was born on March 2nd, 1941, in Harlem, New York, to Benjamin

Story and Curlee Valentine. As the oldest of six siblings, Ethel naturally embraced a

caring and nurturing role throughout her life. She attended the Bronx High School of

Science, where she laid the foundation for her lifelong love of learning and

community involvement.

Ethel met and married Robert Allen Smith, a fellow Harlem native, and together they

raised two daughters, Lisa and Linda, in the Bronx. Proud of her Pisces nature, Ethel

was never shy about speaking her mind, instilling resilience in her daughters and

teaching them to face life’s challenges with strength.

For many years, Ethel worked for the Manhattan Transit Authority. She also worked

for the New York postal service, where she formed many long lasting friendships and

relationships, including Raymond Barr (Bruce), who would later become her husband.

In search of a quieter life for her family, Ethel and Bruce moved to Somerset, New

Jersey, putting down roots with her teenage daughters. Her green thumb and love for

home improvement projects made her house a warm and welcoming place. She also

pursued a career in real estate, earning her license and practicing with Coldwell

Banker for a time. As a dedicated member of the NAACP, Ethel’s passion for justice

and equality was recognized with an award for her contributions.

After retiring, Ethel poured her heart into her grandchildren, creating "Grandma

School" in her living room, where she nurtured not only her three grandkids but also

many other children in the community. Known as “Ma” and “Grandma” by so many,

Ethel was beloved for her wisdom, generosity, and boundless energy.

She had a knack for finding the best deals, and her love for couponing and bargain

hunting was legendary. Ethel delighted in sharing her finds and always had

something special to gift from her latest shopping haul. A devoted lottery player,

Ethel had her numbers down to a science. She was always quick to share her

winnings, whether from a scratch-off or a nightly draw.

She was also an enthusiastic participant at her grandchildren’s school events, never

missing a concert, ceremony, or graduation. Music brought her joy, and though she

couldn’t carry a tune, Ethel’s singing, dancing, and spirited shouts of encouragement

were infectious.

As she ascends to glory, Ethel is reunited with her daughter Linda, siblings Benjamin,

Curtis, and Geraldine, parents Benjamin and Curlee, as well as beloved cousins

Shirley, Dorothy, and Mary Ann. She leaves behind her daughter Lisa, grandchildren

Shalanda, Geoffrey, Larissa, and Cornell, brothers Melvin and Robert, as well as sons in law George and Don.

Her family, friends, cousins, nieces, and nephews will all continue to carry on her legacy of love.