Barbara Ann Mebane Herbin transitioned to her heavenly home on March 23, 2023, just shy of her 84th birthday.  Barbara Ann or "Barb" to many, was born May 2, 1939 to James Sr. and Ardell (Cecelia) Mebane. She later became the big sister to James Mebane, Jr., all of whom preceded her in death.

Growing up, Barbara Ann attended local schools in the Greensboro community.  Starting out at Goshen School, she proceeded to Rena Bullock, then James B. Dudley High (Class of 1957), and finally, graduating from Bennett College with a B.A. in Education in 1961. Barb's passion for educating and nurturing children with special needs led her to complete additional certification courses at Greensboro College where she was one of the first African American students to attend this institution. Barb spent over 39 years sharing her skills, experiences, and love as a teacher within the Guilford County School System. She broke the color barrier when she became the first African American Teacher at Pleasant Garden Elementary School.

Barbara Ann and Alonzo (Lonnie) Herbin married on April 13, 1963.  They were married for exactly 32 years until his untimely passing on their anniversary in 1995.  As life partners, they operated several small business ventures in addition to working their "day" jobs. These small businesses had a direct benefit to the community.  Barb and Lonnie were especially generous in sharing their resources within the community.  At home they welcomed their children's friends, not only to the kitchen table, but also to move in and join the family whenever they needed a safe and loving environment.

When Barbara Ann created a bond, that bond was unbreakable.  Barbara and Lonnie fostered family and community bonds.  Everyone looked forward to those memorable gatherings at the Herbin home. The bigger the party, the better.  There was always an abundance of food and lots of love to go around.

Barb's kindness was unwavering earning her this endearing endorsement: "There is not a person in Mt. Tabor who would not do anything for Barb." Many family members and friends alike affectionally called her "Momma Barb". Even after moving out of Mt. Tabor, she maintained a constant presence in the community she loved.  It was a rare day that Barbara Ann did not make the drive to Mt. Tabor because it was there that she was tethered by heart, blood, and community. Barb's second home was her beloved Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church where she faithfully attended services on Sunday and several times during the week.  She truly embodied the sentiment of being the hands and feet of God.  You could always hear her telling others, "Only what you do for Christ will last." She served the church in many roles including but not limited to: Vacation Bible School coordinator, faithful choir member, homecoming committee member, and like her mother, Cecelia, she ensured there were always beautiful live flower arrangements on the altar each and every Sunday. Barbara Ann was also a faithful member and participant in Bible Study Fellowship where she encouraged participation amongst her family, friends, and acquaintances.

Barbara Ann leaves behind a large, loving community of family and friends to mourn her passing, among these are her sons, Kevie Herbin, Chris Herbin (Genevieve) and Don Person (Margaret); daughter, Keisha Herbin Smith (Henry); all of her loving grandchildren two of whom she raised, Kalin and Kayla Herbin; sister-in-law, Jeanette Mebane; nephews, James Overman and Jamal Mebane; great grand children, great nephews, great nieces, and many cousins, many of whom were like her siblings.

Barbara Ann left us an indelible legacy. Let us all remember and spread Barbara's spirit of kindness and generosity by embodying the words of Micah 6:8, "To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Bennett College or the Alzheimer's Association.