Barbara Ann Sowers-Crooke born on August 23, 1947, in Roanoke, VA, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025. Barbara was the daughter of Lester Early and Myrtle Lucy Sowers. She was a loving, caring sister to Shirley, Donald, Betty, Kenny, Phyllis, and Albert. She was a devoted wife, married to the love of her life John B. Crooke (Johnny) to whom she widowed, he was her best friend. Together they had no children however numerous nieces and nephews they adored, would spend weekends with, and were like parents. Together the two loved the flea market and enjoyed thrifting and visiting the beach in their younger years. They also worked alongside each other for years in Johnny's roofing business and she also was employed by Skyline Cleaners of Salem. Barbara took a liking to collecting books she enjoyed reading her favorite author Danielle Steel and watching TV shows like Friends and Judge Judy. She was vigorously active and loved to spend time outdoors or on the porch having her a cigarette with a cup of coffee while talking on the phone with family and friends. She loved cooking and often found delight in exploring Goodwill stores and yard sales in search of unique items and the best deals. Barbara was a devoted family member, cherishing every moment she spent with her loved ones. She would move mountains for her family, and for her great nephews Sayveon and Avery she would walk through fire to protect them. Barbara was the babysitter of all babysitters for generations she was there at the drop of a dime to take care of her family, she loved all of her family and friends and loved sharing her favorite memories with them. Barbara believed in God and making it into heaven. When she still had the strength to make it, attending church was her perfect Sunday and she always believed there was a place far better than here.

Barbara is preceded in death by her father and mother, Lester and Myrtle, her husband, Johnny, brother Donald, niece, Jennifer, and great nephew, Baby Antwan.

Left to cherish her memory are the rest of us and in the hearts of those who loved Barbara, she will always be here.

The family would like to receive anyone who loved or cared for Barbara to join us on Friday, January 24th, 2025 from 5 pm to 7 pm to celebrate her life in a small intimate service located at Valley Funeral Home 1609 Peters Creek Rd NW, Roanoke, VA 24017. A family gathering will follow the service held at House of Prayer 2521 Portland Ave NW Roanoke, VA 24017. Special thanks are given to all the family members who helped Barbara throughout the years, especially with adjusting to life after the passing of her husband, Johnny in 2010. Your generosity is greatly appreciated and she will never forget the kindness and strength we've all had for her.