Barbara Ann Ball Lentini

Barbara Ann Ball Lentini, age 72, of Abingdon, MD passed away at Upper Chesapeake Medical Center on November 14, 2016. Born in Edgewood, MD on April 11, 1944, she was the daughter of the late Dallas Wayne and Agnes Wampler Ball of Harford County.

The day after graduating from Edgewood High School, Barbara began what was supposed to be a summer only job at the former Edgewood Arsenal since she had already enrolled in the former Towson State Teachers College. After buying herself a 1963 White Chevrolet Impala with red leather interior, she had a car payment to make and forwent her teaching career to begin an amazing and fulfilling 42-year career with the Federal Government, to include working at the Pentagon for the last 35 years of her career. Prior to retiring in 2004, Barbara's last position at the Pentagon was serving as the Personal Assistant to the Vice Chief of Staff of the Army, a four-star General. Barbara was the recipient of numerous awards and commendations throughout her career.

Barbara met her soulmate, Army Sergeant Richard "Rick" Lentini, while he was assigned to the Military Police Company, Aberdeen Proving Ground. Barbara and Rick married on December 24, 1966, at Mountain Christian Church in what is now called Walker Chapel, and they remained deeply in love for 40 years. While members of Mountain Christian Church, one year prior to Rick's death they were baptized together at Deer Creek by Senior Pastor Ben Cachiaras.

Although she faced multiple medical challenges through most of her life, she courageously battled her way through each one, with her beloved husband by her side.

Barbara is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Joseph W. and Alicia M. Lentini of Springfield, VA; daughter, Michelle R. Lentini of Abingdon; two precious granddaughters who were the light of her life, Isabella M. and Delaney J. Lentini, both of Springfield, VA; a younger brother, Joel B. Ball of Chehalis, WA; as well as a host of loving family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Barbara is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 40 years, Richard Joseph Lentini, her older brother, Melvin Andrew Ball, and her beloved cats, Sascha and Sheiba.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution can be made to Mountain Christian Church, 1824 Mountain Road, Joppa, MD 21085.