Robert Edward Barba

Robert Edward Barba, of Stevensville, MD, passed away on May 2, 2019; he was 84 years old. Robert Edward Barba, affectionately known as Ed, Eddie or Mr. Ed, is survived by his five children, Jeff Barba (Teresa) of Portsmouth, VA, Kathleen Barba of Reston, VA, Becky Miller (Jon) of Hickory, NC, Greg Barba of Stevensville, MD, and Matthew Barba (Ailene) of Crofton, MD. Ed is also survived by his 14 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria Heath Barba in 1986; his long-term life partner Scarlett Arnold in 2013; his son, Michael Edward in 1964; and his two sisters, Louise Johnson and Carmen Martino. Ed was born on January 6, 1935 in Washington, DC, to Emanuel Abraham Barba and Virginia Musselman. He grew up in Washington, DC. Ed went on to marry Gloria in 1956 and remained married through her death in 1986. Ed and Gloria moved to Bowie, MD, in 1961 and raised five children together that grew into the large family that it is today. Ed and Scarlett shared their lives in Sanibel Island, FL, until her death in 2013. Ed was involved in many activities in the Bowie community. Ed always had a hand in local community government. Over the years, Ed coached many little league baseball teams for Belair and then for the Bowie Boys and Girls Club and played in the men’s softball league for St. Pius X. He was also involved in the development of the Bowie Soccer Association and was a soccer coach for this organization. Around 1953, Ed was given an employment opportunity in the printing industry starting as a warehouse clerk with the George R. Keller Company where Ed proved his value and flourished. Ed’s self-made successful sales career in the printing industry spanned decades. Throughout the years he was known for his sales and sales management success for companies such as Meeks Printing and the Pitman Company. Ed will best be remembered for his sense of humor, rebel style, big heart and a fondness for sweet food and his dogs. Even as a child, Ed could be found causing trouble and telling jokes to anyone who would listen. Soon after marriage, his love for motorcycles was traded for family. Ed loved to bowl and played on many leagues. Ed was always there for his family and friends lending a helping hand whenever they were in need. His huge heart was always on display especially when it came to his dogs. Traditions were important to Ed. He always made sure his children and grandchildren received a birthday card sent with love and was always first in sending out his Christmas card. He was proud of his large family. A Memorial Gathering to celebrate Ed’s life will be held on May 8, 2019, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. with a Time of Remembrance at 7:30 p.m. at the Fellows, Helfenbein & Newnam Funeral Home, located at 106 Shamrock Road, Chester, MD 21619. The family invites Ed’s friends and loved ones to celebrate this special individual and his legacy. The Memorial Gathering will be held first, followed by a celebration at El Jeffe at 1235 Shopping Center Road, Stevensville, MD. Both gatherings will be a time to share stories, laughs, and some favorite memories of Ed. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ed’s name may be made to Compass Regional Hospice located at 160 Coursevall Drive, Centreville, MD 21617; 443-262-4100. The family would love to see as many people as possible to celebrate Ed’s life. Please share this information to anyone who knew and loved Ed as much as we do. All are welcome.

Robert Edward Barba

January 6, 1935 - May 2, 2019