Let me tell you a story about Beverly Johnson, the legendary model and grandmother who knows exactly what she wants. In a recent teaser clip from The Barnes Bunch, exclusively shared with Closer, Beverly, now 71, sat down for a meal with her daughter, Anansa Sims. Now, this isn’t just any meal—it’s a conversation packed with love, honesty, and a little bit of Beverly’s trademark charm.
Over Dinner, the Truth Comes Out
As Beverly and Anansa chatted about the traffic on the way to the restaurant, Anansa, 45, dropped a bombshell. She wanted her mom to move closer to her and her kids—Ava, David, Dean, and Ashton—in sunny California. Picture this: Beverly, with her sharp wit and years of wisdom, didn’t skip a beat. “No, honey,” she replied firmly but lovingly. “I always come and see the kids.”
Now, let’s pause for a moment. Beverly isn’t just saying this to be polite. She’s been a constant presence in her grandkids’ lives, and she knows how important it is to maintain her own independence. It’s a delicate balance that many grandparents face, and Beverly handles it with grace and confidence.
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A Week in Town, But Not a Permanent Move
Anansa, though likely unsurprised by her mom’s response, didn’t bat an eye. The former model assured her daughter that she’d be in town for about a week, ready to spoil the grandkids as only she can. There’s something so beautiful about this dynamic—Beverly knows her role, and she plays it perfectly. She’s there when they need her, but she also knows the importance of maintaining her own life.
But wait, there’s more! Anansa, ever the practical mom, asked Beverly to babysit so she and her fiancé, Matt Barnes, could enjoy a much-needed date night. It’s a small request, but it speaks volumes about their relationship. Beverly isn’t just a grandmother; she’s a partner in parenting, always ready to lend a hand when needed.
“Softa” Instead of “Grandma”: Beverly’s Unique Twist
In a confessional moment, Beverly opened up about her thoughts on being a grandmother. “When I realized I was gonna be a grandmother, I said, ‘I don’t want to be called ‘Grandma,’” she revealed. “The Hebrew name for grandmother was ‘Savta,’ and being a grandmother is soft, and I’m soft.”
So, Beverly did what any creative, thoughtful grandmother would do—she gave the name her own twist. Now, her grandkids affectionately call her “Softa.” It’s a term that’s as unique as Beverly herself, capturing her essence and her relationship with her grandkids perfectly.
A Family Tree Worth Exploring
Beverly’s journey to becoming a grandmother is as fascinating as her life in the modeling world. She shares her daughter, Anansa, with her ex-husband, Danny Sims, whom she was married to from 1977 until 1979. Before that, the Buffalo, New York, native was married to Billy Potter from 1971 until 1974. It’s a rich history filled with love, growth, and resilience.
Meanwhile, Anansa has built her own incredible family. She became a mother when she welcomed daughter Ava Brielle Patterson in July 2011 with ex-husband David Patterson. The couple, who were married from 2010 until 2017, expanded their family with sons David in November 2012 and Dean in June 2014. And if that wasn’t enough, Anansa became a mother for the fourth time when she gave birth to son Ashton with Matt Barnes in December 2018.
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Sharing the news of Ashton’s birth on Instagram, Anansa wrote, “A Gift From God.” She then shared a photo of the newborn, adding, “I’m so in love.” It’s a moment that captures the joy and love that fills this family.
Two years after welcoming Ashton, Anansa and Matt announced their engagement in December 2022. The couple shared the happy news by posting several photos on Instagram of Matt down on one knee, popping the question in front of a Christmas tree. “YESSS,” Anansa enthusiastically captioned the post. It’s moments like these that remind us how love continues to grow and evolve in this family.
Where to Catch More of Beverly and Her Family
The Barnes Bunch airs on WEtv Fridays at 10 p.m. ET. It’s a show that captures the essence of family, love, and the little moments that make life so special. If you haven’t tuned in yet, it’s time to meet Beverly, Anansa, and the rest of the crew.
