With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of Barbara Ann Jones, 76, of St. Stephen, SC, who passed away on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

The Foundation of Our Lives

Barbara Ann Jones was the glue that bonded her family together, providing the strength that allowed them to become the people they are today. We can never, ever be thankful enough for the sacrifices she made for her family and those she loved.

Barbara Ann Jones was born on April 28, 1949, in Washington, DC, to the late William L. Jones and Estelle Ada Jones. An identical twin, she shared a bond beyond understanding with her twin sister. A spirited childhood concluded at the age of 17 in 1966 when she took the first step in her life toward adulthood by joining the United States Postal Service where she would work for an astounding 40+ years. During her time there she would meet the fathers of her 3 sons: James Leroy Mason & Ellis Larry Gant, Jr.

However, Barbara Ann Jones could not be defined only by her time in the United States Postal Service as she was the quintessential jack of all trades but master of none, except she did master those trades most dear to her. Homeopathic natural remedies, boating, pharmacology, medical billing & coding, auxiliary policing, and teaching were just some of the fields of study and professions that she applied herself to. She was a living encyclopedia of applied knowledge. Simply put, Barbara Ann Jones was a lifelong learner who always strived for scholastic achievement in herself and others.

A selfless individual who would be the first person to say never waste knowledge by getting rid of a book but would gladly give her last dollar to a stranger if they were worse off than her.

She was a loved friend, cousin, aunt, sister, daughter, mother and grandmother. She will be missed every single day. Survived by numerous friends, nieces, nephews, cousins, siblings, grandchildren, and most importantly her 3 sons she affectionately called "The 3 Giants" in her life.

From the beginning of this journey till its end on February 8, 2026, she left her mark on the world.

Son 1: Mateyah Mason

My mother attended Clara Barton High School (Brooklyn, NY) leading to a lifelong interest in boating, healing, medicine & nursing. Throughout her life she completed numerous college courses, education programs and obtained various medical certifications. She functioned as a family health researcher-advisor for relatives and friends. Additionally, she became an apprentice Mariner and took yearly trips throughout the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea for fly and surf fishing.

As a teenager my mother and her twin sister decided to seek answers beyond high school on whether Negro people had a history. During this time, they joined study groups focused on that question. Later, as adults, both joined Hashabah Yisrael.

Hashabah Yisrael became a grassroots cultural landmark in Brooklyn, NY. My mother and sister during this time gained great proficiency in Hebrew adopting Hebraic names: Nivkarah Baht Levi Baht Yisrael for my mother and Hashibayah Baht Levi Baht Yisrael for her twin sister. They passed what they learned in Hashabah Yisrael onto their children with discipline and love.

In 1968, Hashabah Yisrael created a private school in response to the riots in Brooklyn, NY. This school would eventually become known as The Israelite Institute where all their children attended. Her time in Hashabah Yisrael sparked an interest in vegetarianism and spirituality. During this time, she developed hobbies and talents in not just being a seamstress, but also crocheting blankets, making stuffed animals, sewing hats, scarves, and bags. Nivkarah and Hashibayah both triumphed over their life's aversities while in Hashabah Yisrael.

Son 2: Simcael Mason

My mother was my best friend; the sister I had always wanted but never had and the mother I needed. There are no number of words I can put on paper which will capture what she truly meant to me. A part of my soul is gone   forever, but for as long as I live, I will always cherish the memories I have with my mother.

Son 3: Ellis Gant III

A fierce protector, a voracious learner/educator, and simply one of the strongest-willed people I've ever known. My mother made me into the man I am today, and I will forever be in awe of her strength and determination to do whatever was needed for those she loved. A mother who raised men with her strength and vulnerability. I will miss her dearly and love her always.

Niece: Temirah Lott

I have been blessed to have my aunt (known as Doda to myself and my siblings) not only as family, but as my best friend and second mother, especially after the loss of my own mom-her identical twin.  In so many ways, loving her felt like holding onto a piece of my mother, yet she was entirely her own beautiful vibrant soul.

We spoke or texted almost every day, sharing life's moments - big and small. She proudly sent me photos of every certificate she earned in school, inspiring and encouraging me to keep going and finish my own education. We were each other's greatest supporters.

I will always cherish her loving advice, her home remedies and the unwavering care she gave so freely. The space she leaves behind is immeasurable.  Her love and strength will truly live on in my heart forever.  I will truly miss her.

All arrangements and professional services have been entrusted to Henryhand Funeral Home of St. Stephen, SC. 843-354-2292.