Barbara Sexton's Obituary
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara Ann Sexton, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Barbara passed away on October 19, 2025, at Somerford House of Frederick, where she resided for the past two years. Born on May 20, 1940, in Clarksburg, MD, and later residing in Thurmont, MD, she was the daughter of the late John Russell Cordell and Daisy May (Brown) Cordell.
Barbara was preceded in death by her loving husband of 65 years, Norman Sexton, Sr., and their marriage was a true testament to the lasting power of love. They built a life and home filled with joy, laughter, and unwavering support. They had a deep and profound respect for each other and you could always find them holding hands or playfully teasing one another.
Barbara is survived by her three sons: Terry and wife Melissa of Thurmont, MD, James and wife Shelly of Hedgesville, WV, and Robert and wife Denise of Rocky Ridge, MD. Her thirteen grandchildren: Crystal Grimm and husband Ronnie, Shawna Sexton, Drew Sexton and wife Brittany, Chaz Sexton and wife Jordan, Alexis Sexton, Nikki Sexton, Brittany Cook and husband Ryan, Alecia Sexton, Ashlie Hitchcock and husband Justin, Kayla Sexton, Cory Sexton, Hope Sexton, and Olivia Sexton, as well as 12 great-grandchildren, sister in-laws, nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husband, Barbara is preceded in death by her son, Norman Sexton Jr., great-grandson, Jack Sexton, brother Jack Cordell, and numerous brother-in laws and sister in-laws.
Barbara was a homemaker most of her life; she loved to sew and bake, and was known for making the world’s best macaroni and cheese and sausage gravy and biscuits. She also loved wearing her fancy jewelry, sparkling diamonds, and fur coats. Barbara always had a smile on her face that would brighten up any room. She enjoyed spending time with her family, eating out, and shopping, especially on Christmas Eve, she loved any toy that made noise, and there wasn’t a dessert she didn’t like. Barbara was also a huge part of the success of the family business, as co-owner of Sexton Contractors, custom home builders, for 40+ years. She handled the secretarial duties and Permit responsibilities while her husband and sons were out building houses throughout Frederick and Washington counties.
Family meant everything to Barbara and she was very proud of hers. Her welcoming smile, tenderness, and cheerful and nurturing spirit will forever be engraved in their hearts. Barbara will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her legacy of love and devotion will live on through her family, and the memories they shared will be cherished forever.
Our family wishes to thank the staff at Somerford House of Frederick for taking such good care of our beloved mother, showing her compassion, understanding, and love during the final years of her life.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 26, from 10am-11am at Resthaven Funeral Home & Crematory Inc, 9501 B Catoctin Mtn Hwy, Frederick, MD 21701, followed by the service. A burial will follow in Resthaven Memorial Gardens where family and friends will gather to celebrate Barbara's life and share their memories.
What’s your fondest memory of Barbara?
What’s a lesson you learned from Barbara?
Share a story where Barbara's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Barbara you’ll never forget.
How did Barbara make you smile?

