Recognizing Josephine Barbee

Floor Speech

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Mr. MANNION. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Josephine Barbee, mother of UAW International Representative Mark Barbee, who resides in my district in Syracuse, NY.

Born on July 23, 1939, Josephine Barbee was a devoted mother and a true pioneer in early childhood education and community service. Along with her brother, Dr. Bishop Leonard R. Williams--pastor of Zion Holiness Church and Bishop of the Great Lakes District--she played a critical role in designing, producing, and implementing vital community programs across Newark, New Jersey.

Her work included the creation of summer programs, lunch initiatives, and a food bank that have helped meet the needs of families and children in underserved communities, ensuring they had access to essential resources during difficult times.

Josephine Barbee also founded the M.E. Stith Daycare Center at Zion Holiness Church, named in honor of her aunt. This daycare center became a cornerstone of early childhood development in Newark, serving as a nurturing and educational environment for generations of young children.

Her commitment to increasing community access to vital services continued throughout her career with the Essex County Division of Welfare, where she worked to improve socio-economic conditions in the community. Even after her official retirement in 1985 she continued to support youth programs that still serve the greater Newark community today.

While Josephine Barbee passed away on February 1, 2025, her legacy is carried on by her son, Mark Barbee, who shares his mother's commitment to serving others, ensuring that her profound impact remains alive and well in the lives of those she touched. We are fortunate that Mark continues to carry the torch she lit in my hometown of Syracuse, NY.

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