Dr. Barbara Ann Blayton Richardson Obituary in Richmond at Scotts Funeral Home

Obituary For Dr. Barbara Ann Blayton Richardson

Barbara Ann Blayton Richardson, Ph.D., age 88, died on September 8, 2024, in Richmond, VA.

Born the eldest of four to Dr. James B. and Alleyne H. Blayton, on May 16, 1936, Barbara lived a rich and rewarding life. She was a professor of Early Childhood Education at Pacific Oaks College, Christopher Newport College, and Winston-Salem State University. She was an advocate for children and a social worker. She was the Director of the Winston-Salem State University Child Development Center and had a private practice as an LCSW in Pasadena, CA. She was an elder member of the National Black Child Development Institute and a longtime National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) member.

She was also an artist in her own right, making and selling beaded jewelry and learning to draw at the age of 88. She was a photographer as well. She once took a photography trip to Morocco to further develop her skills. Earlier this year, two of her photographs were selected to be shown by the Cedarfield Photography Club.

Barbara was a collector of many things – orchids, owls, beads, clothes, Native American and African art. She also collected people from all walks of life. Barbara made friends everywhere she went – at the restaurant, at the local wine shop, at the clothing store, in the neighborhood.

Barbara loved to travel, and she loved to learn. One of her favorite places in the US was Sedona, Arizona. There she fell in love with Native American art and culture. Inspired by Dr. Asa Hilliard, historian and Egyptologist, Barbara went to Egypt twice with Dr. Hillard to learn about Egyptian history and culture. She also enjoyed trips to Alaska, Rio de Janeiro, Barcelona, Paris, Venice, Rome, and Florence to name a few.

Born at Whitaker Hospital in Newport News, VA, Barbara spent her childhood in Williamsburg, Virginia. She attended Palmer Memorial Institute in Sedalia, North Carolina for high school, graduating in 1954. She then went to Wheaton College in Norton, Massachusetts, graduating with her bachelor's degree in 1958. After finishing college, Barbara worked in Boston, MA doing research at Harvard and as a social worker for the Department of Social Services. In 1961 Barbara decided to pursue a master's degree in Social Work which she completed at Howard University in 1963. After completing her degree, she worked with racially and culturally diverse families in New York City and Philadelphia providing family support services.

Barbara met her husband, George, while in graduate school. He was in medical school at Howard. They married in 1965 and had two children. Once George finished his medical program, Barbara and her family settled in Altadena, California. In addition to ensuring that Lisa and David received the best education, Barbara participated in social and political community organizations, tended her roses, and enjoyed swimming.

In the 1970s Barbara joined the faculty at Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena, CA. She taught courses in the Marriage, Family and Child Counseling degree program. In 1981 she earned her Ph.D. in Education at Claremont University in Pomona, CA. Her dissertation was titled, "Racism in Child Rearing: A Study of Black Mothers".

In the early 1980s, Barbara joined the Department of Education at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) in North Carolina as a faculty member and the Director of the WSSU Early Childcare Center. In 1986 she retired and went home to Williamsburg, VA to take care of her aging parents.

She is predeceased by her husband, Dr. George G. Richardson, her parents, James B. and Alleyne H. Blayton, her siblings, Betty Blayton, James B. Blayton, Jr., and her grandson, David B. Richardson.

She is survived by her children, Lisa R. Jackson and David K. Richardson, and their spouses Alden W. Jackson and Jocelyn Richardson, her grandchildren, Coleman B. Jackson, Cleo B. Jackson, Brandon J. Richardson, Miles J. Richardson, Xavier Pierre'Auguste, Jasmine Pierre'Auguste and spouse Johnathon Tamayo, 2 great-grandchildren, Lucia and Mateo Tamayo, and her brother Oscar H. Blayton and his spouse Bonnie Winston.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Sunday, November 10, 2024 from 3 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. at Cedarfield , 2300 Cedarfield Parkway, Henrico, VA 23233.

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Zada A Blayton planted 5 trees in memory of Dr. Barbara Ann Blayton Richardson . - November 09, 2024

Plant trees for Dr. Barbara Ann Blayton Richardson

Barbara,we thank you for the love and dedication for the communities you served, and your many stories shared throughout our times together. Rest in peace our dear and genuine friend. Loving Cousins, Anitra and Charles

Dr. Barbara Ann Blayton was a woman that the Branch family will never forget. Being our mom's first cousin, cousin Barbara was loved by all of us boys and our dad. As my dad would always say, Barbara was a strong, resilient, wise, and compassionate woman. She always made us laugh when in her presence. Yes, it is true that she will be missed, but her fingerprints are all over our family. To the Blayton family, we want you to know that you have our deepest sympathy. The Branch family

To the family of Barbara Blayton Richardson: I'm thinking of you today as you celebrate the rich life of your beloved matriarch. Her acts of love for the benefit of family and in service to the community-at-large are deeply rooted in our memories. I'm smiling as I recall her thoughtfulness and humor. Barbara has gifted us all with fond memories of her.

Barbara: your legacy of love and friendship will continue to inspire us all. Your memory will forever be etched in the fabric of your family and all whose lives have been touched by you. You remain a beacon of light and love. Thank you for including us In the extended family. -Ed & Jacqueline

Dear Richardson and Blayton Families, Kent and I were so saddened to hear of Barbara's passing. She was a delightful hostess and kind friend over the years. We will treasure our any memories made with her over a bottle of good wine. Please know BB was admired and adored by Kent and I. Hold close the beautiful memories. Hugs and prayers. Cheryl and Kent Fortner

My sweet BB, brought so much warmth and love to our lives. Her incredible smile that lit up a room will be forever missed. Texas will never be the same, love ya bunches.
Desi

Barbara was one of my HERO'S!! I met her when I was 13. I'd like to think I was the favorite babysitter;. Lisa and David were MY favorites. She was getting her Doctorate at the time. She was brilliant, down to earth, and hillarious, with her dry since of humour. Most important- She loved her babies.She was a bright light to many. God Bless you Lisa & David, as well as all of the family.

Barbara added so very much to the Cedarfield community. It was a great privilege and pleasure to have known her. We will certainly miss her. Linda Meiser

Cousin Barbara had a style and grace that lit up a room and made everyone shine. We will miss her so much. Love, Lydia

Barbara was a close friend to Dillard Tupponce. Dillard grew up in West Point, VA and met Barbara when they were teenagers. We visited her during the time she lived in North Carolina and during her return to Virginia. We enjoyed Barbara's company and always stayed in touch. Love and prayers to the family. Phyllis Tupponce

Barbara was our beloved Matriach of the Blayton Family. She always shared stories w/great humor,insight & love... Me & my sisters will always be grateful & treasure cousin Barbara for traveling w/our mother,Lois, to Paris! Much Love & many prayers for David, Lisa & all the descendants ofJames & Alleyne Blayton. anita