In Loving Memory of

Minnie Ozelia Barron (née Baker)

October 1, 1928 – August 30, 2025

Minnie Ozelia Barron, beloved matriarch, sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025, in Altoona, Pennsylvania, at the age of 96. Born on October 1, 1928, in Lynchburg, South Carolina, Minnie lived a life rooted in faith, family, and fierce devotion to those she loved.

Minnie retired from the Newark Board of Education in New Jersey, where she dedicated years of service with grace and commitment. Her greatest joy, however, was found in the company of her family. Back in the day, she and her sister Naomi could often be seen cruising through Newark, always in route to pick up one—or several—of their cherished grandchildren. Her presence was a constant source of comfort, laughter, and unconditional love.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Nealie Baker; her sister, Naomi North; her husband, James C. Barron; her second love, John C. Austin; and her son, James C. Barron. She is survived by her brother, Ernest Baker; her son, George Baker of New Jersey; and her daughter, Johnnie Mae Byrd of Texas.

Minnie’s legacy lives on through her grandchildren: George Bailey of NJ, Lance Byrd, Elijah Byrd, Michael Byrd, Jalon Byrd, and John Byrd of TX; her granddaughters Devin Bailey of NJ and Mia Barron of PA; and her great-grandchildren Indya Barron, Paris Brown, Genesis Adonai, Trinity Adonai, Nekoda Byrd of TX, and Zion Byrd of TX. She also leaves behind a host of other great-grandchildren and extended family who will carry her memory forward with pride.

Minnie was lovingly cared for in her final years by her granddaughter Mia Barron, Mia’s longtime fiancé and bonus grandson Shawn Sterling, and her live-in great-granddaughters Indya, Paris, Genesis, and Trinity. Together, they surrounded her with unwavering love, dignity, and daily devotion—ensuring that her final chapter was filled with warmth, respect, and the comfort of family.

Minnie stood for love, loyalty, and the power of showing up—for birthdays, graduations, quiet moments, and everything in between. Her home was a sanctuary, her wisdom a gift, and her laughter a balm to the soul.

As Proverbs 17:6 reminds us: “Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.” Minnie wore her crown with grace, and her pride in her family was evident in every word, every hug, and every sacrifice.

Her life was a testament to the beauty of generational love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

There will be no visitation or services.

Arrangements are provided by The Stevens Mortuary, Inc.

Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook.