Patricia Ann Barnes

Patricia Barnes, a devoted educator, faithful servant of God, loving wife, and nurturing mother, passed away leaving behind a legacy of service, spiritual strength, and unwavering dedication to the education and upliftment of others. Born as the third of nine children to Charlie and Rebecca Gray, Patricia grew up with a strong foundation rooted in faith, family, and the belief that education was a powerful tool for transformation. Her life reflected those values from an early age. During her junior year at Mattie T. Blount High School, she was honored as "Miss Varsity," a recognition of her vibrant spirit and the respect she garnered among her peers. After graduating in 1963, Patricia pursued higher education at Jackson State College, where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health and Physical Education in 1967. It was there, during her freshman year, that she met JL Barnes, who would later become her beloved husband. The two married in 1968 and built a life filled with love, purpose, and faith. Together, they raised four children, and Patricia poured herself into her role as a mother with grace, devotion, and prayer. Throughout her life, Patricia's faith was a guiding light. She was an active and faithful member of her church, where she served with humility and joy. Her spiritual life was not confined to Sunday services-it was visible in how she lived each day. She prayed fervently, loved deeply, and gave generously. She was known to say that teaching was her ministry, and she carried that mission into every classroom she entered. Patricia began her teaching career in Alabama at the Talladega Training School before continuing her service in education as a Health and Physical Education teacher, and later as a Science Resource Teacher, for the DC Public Schools. She believed that every child had God-given potential, and she made it her mission to help students see their worth, both academically and spiritually. In addition to her work in the classroom, Patricia pursued graduate studies at Trinity College and the University of the District of Columbia, with the goal of earning a Master's Degree in Education. Her commitment to lifelong learning was a reflection of her belief that knowledge was a gift from God meant to be shared. Patricia's life was a beautiful testimony to her faith, her family, and her calling. She touched countless lives through her work, her prayers, her encouragement, and her unshakable trust in the Lord. Though she has gone home to be with her Savior, her light continues to shine through the many lives she impacted. She leaves to cherish her memory: Her devoted husband of 57 years, JL Barnes Her three beloved children: Joseph (Sharon) Barnes, Patty (Robert) Greene, and Kevin (Lois) Barnes Her grandchildren: Malik Kelly-Barnes, Diallo Kelly-Barnes, Jayden Barnes and Zachary Barnes Her siblings: Charlene Sanders, Akia Gray, Gloria Jean Gray and Sandra Shaw A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and lifelong friends She was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Rebecca Gray (Enlers), Johnnie Gray (brother), Charlie Gray (brother), Jimmie Gray (brother), Delores Cox (sister), her daughter Jacqueline Barnes and other loved ones who now welcome her into eternal rest. We rejoice in the assurance that Patricia is at peace, resting in the presence of the Most High whom she so faithfully served. "Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord." - Matthew 25:23

Patricia Ann Barnes

September 26, 1944 - July 5, 2025