“Omar” • “Mama International” • “Neighborhood Doctor” • “Granny” • “Grandma”
Sunrise: December 15, 1939
Sunset: May 5, 2025
With deep sorrow and eternal gratitude for a life poured out in service, faith, and family, the Barr, Howard, and Edoho families announce the peaceful transition of our beloved matriarch, Mama Kebbeh Norma Barr — affectionately known as “Mother of All Mothers,” “International Granny,” “Omar,” and “Grandma” to many.
Born in Lofa County, Liberia, Mama Kebbeh’s life was a testimony of grace, endurance, and faith. A proud Registered Nurse and graduate of the TNIMA program, she became Head Nurse of JFK Hospital’s West Wing and later founded a clinic in Wood Camp, Paynesville, where she served tirelessly with skill and compassion.
During Liberia’s civil unrest, she remained a pillar of care — even under captivity — providing life-saving treatment in villages and hospitals. In 1994, she reunited with her daughter in the U.S., continuing her mission of love and prayer across two continents.
Among the many bonds Mama cherished was her relationship with Marley Kolubah, wife of her late brother John Kolubah. In honoring tradition, Mama affectionately called her “My Wife.” Though Marley cannot be present due to illness in Liberia, her bond with Mama is remembered with deep respect.
She is survived by her children:
Kolu M. Dennis, Peewee K. Howard, Garmai G. Edoho, Emrick K. Howard, Grace N. Howard, and Oscar K.S. Vanyanbah
Preceded in death by: Zayzay Howard, Comfort D. Howard, and Yanquoi K. Howard
Also survived by:
20 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, and extended family members
She was also preceded in death by her siblings: Grace Moleyeaze, Nadea Barr, and James B. Barr
Special Acknowledgements
Mama Kebbeh was lovingly cared for in her final years by:
• Grace N. Howard (daughter) — with gentle hands and daily meals
• Charline K. Vanyanbah (in-law and daughter-in-love) — who nurtured Mama with compassion and kindness
• Kolu M. Dennis and Safwart — for regular medical transport and companionship
Her final years were also blessed by:
• Francis Edoho (son-in-law)
• Ralph Miller Sr. (in-law, husband of granddaughter Kebbah Miller, her namesake #2)
• Pastor Dr. Prince C. Frimpong, her spiritual son and pillar of strength
Spiritual Children Remembered:
Pastor Dr. Prince & Mrs. Doris Frimpong
Rev. Mrs. Jonel Clark Weeks (Zonal Director – Anglo West, Every Home for Christ)
Sister Nancy Steven
Jackye Guepy (JESUS’s Bondservant)
Rachel Sumo
Celestine Klaykpoe
She was a Mother to Many
By blood, by love, and by spirit.
We also recognize with love and gratitude:
Alphonso Kassor, Krubo Carter, Precious Wuelleh, and Caroline Howard & Family
And the generations within these families:
The Barr, Wuelleh, Steven, Korboi, Kolubah, Gubi, Moleyeaze, Gayflowu, Green, and Howard families
Celebration of Life Services
Wake-Keeping
🕊 Friday, June 20, 2025 | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Zion Praise Tabernacle Lutheran Church
6600 Laurel Bowie Road, Bowie, MD 20715
Funeral Service
🕊 Saturday, June 21, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
Interment: Lakemont Memorial Gardens Cemetery
Legacy Project: White Coat of Courage — The Mama Kebbeh Norma Barr Project
In her honor, the family has launched a legacy initiative to:
• Provide nursing scholarships for girls in Liberia
• Support community health outreach in Wood Camp
To donate or learn more: https://gofund.me/8507d3a2
Contact for Condolences or Support:
Garmai G. Edoho | +1 (240) 927-2804 (WhatsApp)
Email: knbkebtonyh2o22@gmail.com
