Gina M. Barkley

Gina Barkley, born on February 5, 1961, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, peacefully transitioned into eternal rest on April 9, 2025, in sunny Chula Vista, California. A radiant light in every space she entered, Gina lived a life devoted to service, leadership, faith, and love.

She was the beloved daughter of George Banks and Martha (Dennis) Banks, and was preceded in death by both of them, along with her bonus mother Sally Rae Banks and her brother Charles Harris.

Gina’s home church was St. Stephen’s Episcopal Cathedral in Harrisburg, where she worshipped faithfully for 60 years. Though she would go on to worship elsewhere in adulthood — serving 38 years at New Heritage Christian Church and most recently three years at Shekinah Glory Ministries — St. Stephen’s always remained in her heart. It is only fitting that she returns there for her homegoing celebration.

A proud graduate of Temple University with a Bachelor of Business Administration, Gina completed 16 years of education and carried her wisdom into every facet of her life. She began her professional journey with Merrill Lynch before stepping fully into her calling.

In 1988, Gina co-founded Ebony and Ivory Childcare with her dear friend and coworker Sheila Walker. By 1999, their vision grew into Bright Futures Learning Centers, Inc., where Gina served as Founder and Chief Operating Officer for 37 years. Under her leadership, Bright Futures became the largest state-funded preschool provider in Pennsylvania. She also co-founded the Harrisburg Childcare Coalition, tirelessly advocating for equitable access to early education.

A community pillar and spiritual servant, Gina was a member of the Eastern Stars for four years and was elected President of Harrisburg High School’s Class of 1979. Her home was a haven, opened freely to foster children, struggling families, and those in search of healing and hope.

Her final words were a reflection of her deep faith and unshakable purpose:“Jesus, I’m running for you… Gina took one for the team.”

Gina is lovingly survived by her devoted husband, Reverend Scott Barkley; her son, David Barkley, and daughter-in-love, Indigo Barkley; her daughter, Christa Effiong, and son-in-love, Andrew Effiong; and her treasured grandchildren, Lumière Effiong and Zephaniah Effiong. She also leaves behind her sister, Denise Williams, and brother-in-love, Gregory Williams Sr.; her brother, Dred Scott, and sister-in-love, Katherine Scott; and her beloved mother-in-love, Emma Barkley.

Gina’s impact extended beyond her immediate family. She leaves behind a host of devoted friends, cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and extended family members who will carry her memory forward with honor and joy.

More than a founder, a nurturer, a matriarch, or a minister’s wife — Gina was a giver, a warrior, a visionary. She ran her race with faith, fire, and fierce love, leaving a legacy that will endure for generations.

Well done, thy good and faithful servant.

Livestream the Celebration of Life Service by visiting the St. Stephen's Episcopal Cathedral Facebook Page at 10:00am

 https://www.facebook.com/saint.stephens.cathedral/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcEQmn0kiXM

Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.