Our beautiful mother, Barbara Louise Barnes, passed away and entered eternity with her Savior Jesus Christ on 11/2/2022. She was dearly beloved by many and impacted so many people in her lifetime. Barbara was known for her fun spirit, her sense of adventure, her artistic nature, her curiosity, her faith and her love for her family and friends. Barbara never met a stranger. She loved meeting people and learning all about them. Barbara is known for her strength and her capacity to love and see the best in others. Barbara saw beauty everywhere and loved to capture it in her beautiful watercolor paintings.
Barbara was Legal Assistant to the US Department of Justice; to Attorney Michael Cohen; Dr Arthur Johnson, Microbiology & Immunology, University of Duluth, MN; and was Co-owner (with husband Joe) of Creative Designs of Blowing Rock where she used her gifts of writing and editing.
In July of 2005, Barbara was the featured artist at the Senior Gallery in the Jones House in Boone, NC , featuring an exhibit she called “High Lands’. In January 2006, The Open Door Gallery featured an exhibit of her watercolor work called “Landscape Impressions’’. This show meant the world to her, to be exhibiting her art alongside the works of the love of her life, Joe, also at the Jones House in Boone, NC.
Barbara is predeceased by her parents, Wallace J Martin and Margaret Duda Martin and the love of her life, husband Joseph L Barnes who passed away on 5/3/2016. They were married on March 27, 1965 and created a beautiful life together for 51 years.
Survived by her children and spouses Dave and Allison Barnes, Pam and Rick Levering, and her grandchildren: Jack, Leighton, Kate, Landon, and Leo. As well as her two sisters and their spouses, Charlotte and John Hudson and family and Lynn Martin and John Singly. All whom meant the world to her.
Service will be held 12:30PM on Friday, January 13, 2023, at Bay Pines National Cemetery. Reception will immediately follow.
In lieu of flowers, please make donation to https://msfocus.org/donate.aspx
Barbara was a bright light and a genuine lady. I’m deeply sorry for your loss.
Our deepest sympathy to the Barnes and Levering families! Your mom was a lovely woman that adored her children and was so proud of her grandchildren.
We were blessed to meet them in 2002.
May the memories you share of your mom’s incredible life and accomplishments remain in your heart forever!
May God bless your family as you grieve.
Our deepest sympathy to you for the loss of your dear mother Barbara. Please know that we will have the wonderful thoughts of your mother in our hearts and prayers. Love rollie and jay
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Barnes and Levering families.