Barbara Jean Wooten

Barbara Jean Wooten, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, in her hometown of Cleveland, Ohio, at the age of 84.

Born on February 14, 1941, in Cleveland, Barbara Jean was truly a Valentine’s Day gift to the world. She was the beloved daughter of Harding Fears Sr. and Lady Brown, and was later raised by her devoted stepfather, Elegie Brown. All three preceded her in death. Barbara Jean attended East Tech High School and later pursued her passion for beauty by enrolling in cosmetology school.

In 1961, she married James Wooten. Barbara Jean had four beautiful children: Curtis Roberts, Annette Blue (m. Robert Blue), James Wooten (m. Annette Wooten), and Anthony Wooten (m. Tenisha Wooten). She was a proud grandmother to Curtis, Mario, Brandon, Aarean, Breondon, Keishaun, Keishaunda, and Curtis Jr., as well as nine great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

Barbara Jean was a Christian woman of deep faith and a longtime member of Temple Baptist Church. Her belief in God carried her through life’s joys and challenges, and she remained rooted in that faith until her final days.

Those who knew Barbara Jean will remember her most for her sense of humor. She had a natural gift for making people laugh, often catching her family off guard with a well-timed joke or a playful prank. Her laugh was unforgettable—contagious, and full of life. She brought joy into every room and never took herself too seriously, something her family will always cherish.

Barbara Jean loved to dance, gamble, and cook for those she loved. She was an incredible cook - her granddaughters will always remember her creamy macaroni and cheese. She enjoyed life and hosting people. Everyone was welcome at her house. 

She is survived by her long-time partner, John L. Lewis; her siblings Katie Smith, Kenneth James Fear,  Shirley Ann Wynn, Harding Fears Jr. and Kenneth Brown; her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her siblings Charles Roberts, Earvin Coleman, Elgie Brown, and Michael Brown. She also leaves behind close family friends Barbara and Nina.

A public viewing will be held on Thursday, July 3, beginning at 4:00 PM at Gaines Funeral Home on Lee Road. The wake will take place Saturday, July 5, at 10:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 10:30 AM, also at Gaines Funeral Home. The repass will be held at 1:00 PM at Affluent Party Center on Libby Rd in Maple Heights.

Barbara Jean Wooten leaves behind a legacy of faith, laughter, and love. She will be missed dearly and remembered always.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara Jean Wooten, please visit our floral store.