Barbara Jean Spann, affectionately known as “Mama Spann”, was born on August 6, 1948, in San Francisco, CA to John and Margaret Brown, both preceded her in death. Born into a military family, she and her siblings were afforded many opportunities to travel to Germany and many other cities in the United States. She was raised in Temple, TX where she attended school and graduated proudly from Temple High School.

Seeking new opportunities, Barbara later moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where she began her career with Wilcox Electric. In 1989, she relocated to Miami, Florida, and continued her working career with Jackson Health System. She served faithfully and diligently until her retirement in 2010.

Barbara was a woman of great love, generosity, and service. She found joy in cooking, decorating, creating beautiful floral arrangements, and free hand sketching and drawing. She especially enjoyed feeding others and extending a helping hand to anyone in need. Her home was always a place of warmth, comfort, and welcome.

In 2015, Barbara returned to Kansas City, Missouri, where she remained until her passing. She was a devoted member of Macedonia Baptist Church and found great joy in worship, fellowship, and serving alongside her church family.

Barbara leaves to cherish her memory her beloved children, Antony “Tony” Brown (Jessica), Tara N. Brown, and Teresa Hughes (Thomas).

She was a proud and loving grandmother (Granny) to Antonio, Dwayne, Jayce, Kennedy, Deidre, Denise, Eric, Deyana, Dana, Kevin, Desantante, Epiphany, Demetrius II (Cole), and Quiani. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Antony Jr.

She is survived by her dear siblings, Gertrude, Arthur, Vivian, and John. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Connie Sue and Doris Marie.

She also leaves her great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and loving friends.

Barbara’s life was a beautiful reflection of love, kindness, and selfless service. Her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A funeral service will be held, Friday, April 17, 2026 at Grace Abounds Community Church, 2400 Grandview Blvd, Kansas City, KS 66102. The visitation will begin at 10:00 am, the service will follow at 11:00 a.m.