Barbara Best Walker

Barbara Best Walker was born February 18,1942, to the late Leanora R. Walker in Colon, Panama. After completing her schooling in Panama City, Panama, she joined her Mother here in the United States. Barbara passed away on July 4, 2025, at the Parker at McCarrick Home in Somerset, New Jersey where she was receiving Rehabilitation following a second Stroke. Barbara began her career with the Francis E. Parker Memorial Homes in the early 1970s. In January 1993, she received her certificate as a Certified Geriatric Aide from the Middlesex County Vocational and Technical School. Sister Best worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant / Geriatric Aide until her Retirement on January 6, 2018, having faithfully served Patients at the Parker Home Piscataway and Easton Avenue locations for more than fifty Years. Barbara found her dedication and service as a nurse within the Ministry of Help to be a deeply fulfilling call, and a source of joy and purpose in her life. As a Founding Member of the Faith Hope Baptist Church, it was heartwarming for her to reflect on the privilege to serve under the guidance of its four Pastors. She often expressed deep gratitude and appreciation for the blessings and strength received through her involvement in the Church, the District Association, State and National Conventions. Sister Best trusted God and had unwavering faith that He would neither abandon her nor forsake her or her family. She said God remained steadfast in keeping His promises. She often repeated the Words found in Deuteronomy 31:8: "the Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." She would say, “These words have been a source of strength and encouragement for me, and I hope they provide the same for you.” Sister Barbara Best was loving, kind and always willing to help others. Her amazing love will forever be etched into the lives of those who had the pleasure of her presence. Her devotion extended beyond her professional and spiritual commitments into the very fabric of her family life. She was a loving mother, aunt, and friend whose warmth and gentle spirit touched everyone she met. She delighted in church gatherings and cherished the simple joy of being surrounded by loved ones. Barbara’s words of encouragement and her steadfast prayers became pillars for those around her, sustaining family and friends through times of both joy and hardship. Her generosity knew no bounds, and she was always ready to lend a listening ear, a helping hand, comforting embrace, or words of hope. Her legacy is not merely measured by years of service or accolades, but by the countless lives she uplifted with her kindness and unwavering faith. Those who knew her will remember her radiant smile, her gentle laughter, and the quiet strength that defined her presence. Her example proclaims the importance of love, tolerance and forgiveness. Barbara was preceded in death by her Mother, Leanora R. Walker and Sisters, Vilma Best Walker and Sylvia Walker. Sister Best leaves to cherish her memories, her Beloved Son Robert Best, Loving and caring Niece Lizeth Thomas and thoughtful Nephew, MarcAnthony Johnson in New Jersey. Nieces, Nephews and Great Nieces and Nephews from California and Panama City, Panama: Yolanda Young, Monica Stewart, Shila McFarlane, Anthony Stewart, Michael Blackwell, Shantel Gil, Shonda McFarlane, Dangelo Washington, Eduardo Young, Danilo McFarlane, Basilio McFarlane, Alonso McFarlane; the Faith Hope Baptist Church Family Members and a host of Family Members and Special Friends near and afar. Funeral services were held July 18, 2025, at Faith Hope Baptist Church, New Brunswick. Bishop Joseph Brickhouse, Sr. officiated.

Barbara Best Walker

February 18, 1942 - July 5, 2025