Allen, Barbara J.

Barbara Jean Allen was born to Bernard Pedro (preceded in death) and Celestine Allen on November 26, 1955 in Washington, D.C. She was the fourth child of six, which included Bernard Pedro Allen Jr. (preceded her in death), Marie Celeste Grant, Patricia Ann Davis, Elizabeth Valencia Allen, and Christine Louise Allen. As a child growing up in Suburban Philadelphia where she attended elementary school she enjoyed spending time with her siblings where one of her fondest memories was when her mother dressed she and her sister Patricia (Pat) in coordinating outfits. One could say that is where she acquired her love for fashion and classy dressing. During the 1970’s the family moved to Houston where Barbara and her siblings were an intricate part of integrating Madison High School located in Southwest Houston. That is where she met Ersel Cole Jr, and God ultimately blessed them with their two greatest joys in life; their children; Ersel (The III) and Natalie. Her initial college years were at Kilgore College where she received her Associate of Applied Science in Nursing in 1993. In 2000, Barbara began working in the field of teaching as a Health Science Technology teacher for Longview High School. She often told stories and facilitated in depth discussions on numerous healthcare topics. Many of her students chose careers in the Healthcare Industry due to her inspirational character and impactful teaching. In 2008, she moved to the Dallas/Fort Worth area where she continued her healthcare career as a nurse in Irving ISD. She worked for Sam Houston Middle School and most recently Travis Middle School. She later graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Nursing with Honors. In her tenure with Irving ISD she served as a confidant and mother figure to many of her students. She was loved by all of those she came in contact with for her vivacious personality and drive, to overcome obstacles. In 2012, Barbara was diagnosed with Stage 3 Ovarian Cancer, but never gave up. She may have had cancer, but the cancer certainly did not have her. She always believed that God would do exceedingly and abundantly more than she could think and or imagine (Eph.3:20). When the doctors would say “we do not think she will make it” Barbara would proclaim that “everything happens in God’s timing.” On February 2, 2014 God’s omniscient timing was manifested and HE saw fit to call HIS angel home. She fought the good fight and faithfully endured her race and now claims her place with her heavenly FATHER. Rejoicing and dancing as she is made whole again. Barbara is survived by her children Ersel Cole III (LaKisha Cole), Natalie Gray (Edwin Gray); grandchildren, Trinity A’nia Gray, Madison Alyssa Gray, Sanai MacKenzie Cole, and Ersel Cole IV; nieces and nephews, Aundrea Marie Allen, Karen Michelle Grant, Kenneth Jonathan Grant, Angela Allen, Brittany Allen, Christopher Ja’Mayl Allen, Ashley Marie Allen; grand-doggies, Titan and Nura Gray.   Arrangements are under the direction of: ARIA Cremation Service & Funeral Home 19310 Preston Road, Dallas, Texas 75252 214) 306-6700