Mrs. Barbara A. Kellam, 69, of Parksley, departed this life on Thursday, April 20, 2023, at Shore Health and Rehabilitation Center in Parksley surrounded by her loved ones.
Born in Nassawadox, Barbara was the beloved daughter of the late John and Earnestine Kellam.
“Beddie,” as she was affectionately known, received her education in the Accomack County Public Schools and was a graduate of Onancock High School. She continued her education at the Eastern Shore Community College, where she earned a certificate in criminal justice and an associate’s degree in business administration, specializing in information systems technology. She also earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Grand Canyon University.
On September 24, 2009, Barbara married the love of her life, Preston “Buddy Pole” Kellam.
Barbara entered the workforce at the Experiment Station in Painter for several years. In later years she worked at Perdue Farms, but her love for education led her to another career. Barbara worked for the Accomack County Public Schools for twenty years before her health began to fail.
Beddie accepted Christ and began her walk with the Lord. Over the years, she attended various churches, but found her assignment of the leadership of Rev. Milton P. Bunting at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Wardtown. There she served faithfully as a member of the leadership team, choir, and as the administrative assistant to the pastor.
Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 29, 2023, from Ebenezer Baptist Church in Wardtown, with the Rev. Milton P. Bunting officiating.
Barbara leaves to celebrate her life and love: five sons, Cory Kellam, Calvin Bunting Jr., Devin Bunting, Sharod Bunting, and Kinte Reid; 17 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Sheryl Kellam, Doris Spicer, and Patricia Kellam; godsister, Odessa Wessells; special friend that was like a sister, Thelma Dickerson; special and dedicated caregivers, Tamika Lilliston and Tara Harmon; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.
Arrangements were made by the Cooper & Humbles Funeral Co., Accomac.
