Vera Douglas is a remarkable daughter of the Barnes Blow Family whose life reflects strength, faith, courage, and commitment to family and community.
Vera is the daughter of Rassie “Bear” Williams and the beloved wife and lifelong best friend of Lawrence Douglas. She is the proud granddaughter of Willie Mae Blow, continuing the legacy of resilience and family devotion passed down through generations of the Barnes Blow lineage.
Born in Courtland, Virginia, in Southampton County, Vera spent part of her youth in the area before her family later relocated to Norfolk, Virginia. Like many members of the Barnes Blow Family, her childhood memories are deeply rooted in family connection and fellowship.
Vera recalls being taken by her father to visit Aunt Rhea — affectionately known throughout the family as Mama Rhea — at her farm. She remembers the big white house, the red barn, the well, and the welcoming wraparound porch where family members gathered in joy and fellowship. Cousins, aunts, uncles, and relatives of all ages filled the yard with laughter and connection. These treasured memories remain a powerful symbol of family unity that Vera continues to celebrate today through the Barnes Blow Family Reunions.
Vera was an excellent athlete and student in school. She played in a softball league for six years.
Family and Personal Life
Vera’s greatest joy is her family. She and her husband, Lawrence Douglas, have built a loving and strong household together. Their marriage reflects friendship, loyalty, and shared purpose.
Vera enjoys Fourth of July celebrations with her husband, children, and grandchildren. She leads an active life and provides leadership and support to the organizations she serves. She also values quiet time for reflection and self-care.
Together, they are the proud parents of seven children, two daughters and five sons:
Their legacy continues through six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Service and Professional Achievements
Vera’s professional journey is extraordinary and reflects her courage, discipline, and dedication to service.
She served 17 years as a Merchant Marine aboard combat store ships that supplied the United States Navy. Her maritime career took her around the world to ports including Spain, Dubai, Iran, Barcelona, and Egypt. During these voyages, she passed the historic Rock of Gibraltar and sailed through the Red Sea. On one voyage, she also spent several days visiting Israel.
One of the most powerful moments of her career occurred during the Desert Shield / Desert Storm conflict when Vera was at sea. Her ship had to leave Esme, Turkey, as hostilities escalated. During that tense time, a United States submarine escorted their ship, providing protection while they navigated dangerous waters.
Continued Professional Growth
Even after her maritime career, Vera continued to pursue service and education. Her credentials include:
• Certified Addiction Counselor – State of Maryland
• Certified First Responder
• Certified Medical Assistant
• Commissioned Notary – State of Maryland
• Certified Nursing Assistant (Tidewater Tech)
Community and Civic Engagement
• Order of the Eastern Star (38 years)
• Imperial Court Daughters
• Ladies of the Circle of Perfection
• Daughters of Elks
• The Sirens
• The Golden Circle
She is currently attending National University pursuing a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice.
Leadership Within the Barnes Blow Family
Vera served as Co-Chair of the 2025 Barnes Blow Family Reunion held at the Southampton County Fairgrounds in Courtland, Virginia, from June 24–27, 2025. She actively encourages family members to attend reunions and strengthen the bonds between generations.
She strongly believes in the Barnes Blow Family mission:
“Honoring Our Past and Embracing Our Future.”
Faith, Character, and Community
Throughout every phase of her life, Vera’s faith, strength, and courage have guided her path. Whether serving her country at sea, counseling others in need, supporting her family, or helping organize family reunions, Vera lives a life of purpose and compassion.
Tribute Poem — The Strength of the Sea
Across the oceans wide and far,
Where restless waves and strong winds are,
A daughter of Courtland stood so brave,
Serving with courage upon the sea’s great wave.
From Gibraltar’s rock to the Red Sea’s tide,
She sailed with honor and steadfast pride.
Through distant ports and foreign lands,
She carried strength in steady hands.
When conflict rose, and danger grew,
Her courage shined both strong and true.
Guarded by submarines beneath the deep,
She sailed the waters others feared to keep.
Yet greater still than seas she crossed,
Was love for family never lost.
Nine children raised with guiding care,
A legacy of strength to share.
And still today her heart remains
Where family memory forever reigns —
The white farmhouse, the barn so red,
Where Mama Rhea’s love was spread.
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Cousin Vera, I learned so much about your life as a result of you being honored for Women’s History Month. Congratulations to you.