Our family gatherings did not truly begin until my grandmother walked through the door. I am Bonnie Bartholomew, and Beulah Barabino carried the country soil of Rosedale into the Seventh Ward and turned an entire neighborhood into kin.
Born to Magnolia “Big Ma” Robertson and Lamar Robertson, my grandmother’s story began in Rosedale, Louisiana. Her early years were rooted in the deep bonds of family, and she later moved with her parents and siblings to Pine Grove, Louisiana. It was there that her life’s journey of love, family, and perseverance truly began to take shape, laying the foundation for the extraordinary matriarch she would become.
In time, my grandmother married my grandfather, Edgar Barabino. From their beautiful union came eight wonderful children: Beverly, Betty, Catherine, Edgar, Larry, Kevin, Marshall, and Wilbert. Looking to build a bright future for her growing family, my grandmother made the move from Pine Grove to New Orleans, settling the family in the historic Seventh Ward.
Through her immense strength, unwavering dedication, and unconditional love, she created a home and a family foundation that would continue to thrive for generations. Her children were her proudest work, yet that immense love she carried simply couldn’t be contained within the walls of her own home.
She became the true centerpiece of her community. Her home was the safe, welcoming haven where all the neighborhood kids convened to play out front. She was always there on the porch or looking out the door, keeping a watchful, loving eye on everyone and making sure the entire neighborhood felt like family.
The legacy my grandmother built is reflected in the countless lives she helped shape. Her family tree has flourished beyond measure, growing to include 27 grandchildren, 68 great-grandchildren, 55 great-great-grandchildren, and even a great-great-great-great-grandchild!
My grandmother’s story was never really about names and numbers; it was a powerful story of sacrifice, strength, and joy. She was absolutely famous for her incredible New Orleans Red Beans and Rice — a legendary dish that was the highlight of our gatherings and could bring the whole family running to her kitchen. For my grandmother, cooking her red beans wasn’t as simple as opening a couple of cans and calling it a meal, absolutely not. I have witnessed times when the preparation of the beans started two full days before we even ate them. She was more than just a great cook; with her famous Red Beans and Rice, she built bonds and relationships that transcended normal friendship, bringing in folks who evolved into new members of our family, all from a single plate of beans.
She loved the vibrant energy of the city and thoroughly enjoyed attending the local parades. And when football season rolled around, you could always find her up in Tad Gormley Stadium supporting one of her grandkids, or fanatically strutting in front of her TV screaming, “WHO DAT SAY THEY GONNA BEAT THEM SAINTS!”
It is absolutely true — my grandmother was the life of every single party. In fact, many of our family get-togethers simply didn’t start until she arrived. The moment she walked into a room, the entire energy shifted. She brought with her an infectious spirit filled with endless laughter, music, dancing, and a magnetic warmth that drew everyone right to her side. She had a special gift for making every gathering feel like a grand celebration of life and family. Though her roots were grounded in the country soil of Rosedale, every fiber of my grandmother’s soul was Naturally New Orleans, and she will always be the undeniable star of our show.
Her roots were country, but her spirit was Naturally New Orleans. Every generation that carries her name carries a little of that laughter, that music, and that gumbo along with it. That was my grandmother, Beulah Barabino — and the party still does not start until somebody says her name.