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Barbara Chow
July 1, 1948 - January 8, 2026
Last week, I received the news of the unexpected and sudden death of my Auntie Barbara. There is much to say about my Auntie that others will share over time for those who knew her, but I wanted to offer a brief word of gratitude for a life well-lived.
For those who grew up in the confusion, chaos, and aftermath of divorce and single-parenthood, you know what it means to have those who are always genuinely present. The overarching memory of my Auntie Barbara is that throughout all seasons of my life, from childhood through adulthood, Auntie (along with my Uncle Henry) was always there, bringing her unique perspective of life and the world.
Auntie viewed the world through a lens all her own. She made up words for things that I think are still being discovered, her collections were a thing of wonder, and she gave us nicknames that continue to bring my cousins and me endless amusement and joy. IYKYK. Her family and I were involved in the same youth activity growing up (Go Drum Corp!), so I saw her a great deal as a teenager, and they rarely missed a celebration or graduation.
More importantly, Auntie was one who softened a room, even when those in it may not have deserved the grace she offered. During seasons of crisis and conflict in my life, she brought normalcy, not as a way to avoid what was happening, but as a reminder that our relationship was not bound by the behavior of others. I know that my family, especially the kids, holds a very special place in our hearts because of the way Auntie has held me throughout my life.
May we all be unapologetically present for others in the way that Auntie has been present for me, my family, and for countless others.
Please join me in holding my cousins, my uncle, and the rest of her friends, family, and community in tender prayer during this time. She will be deeply and profoundly missed.
Rest in Peace, Auntie!
#Boo #StarTrek #Penguins
Peace,
PS: While most folks who read this probably didn't know her, she was a cat person in a colorful way only Auntie Barbara could be. If you would like to make a donation in honor of Barbara Chow, have the notification emailed to me and I will pass along the notes to my uncle.
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