In Loving Memory of Willa Gean Barnes

“To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” — 2 Corinthians 5:8

Willa Gean Barnes, 64, was called home to be with the Lord, leaving behind a legacy of

love, faith, family, and cherished memories. Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we

find comfort in knowing that Willa is now resting in the loving arms of her Heavenly Father.

Willa was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, godmother, aunt, and friend. She

loved her family deeply and was a blessing to everyone whose life she touched. Her

strength, compassion, warmth, and caring spirit will forever remain a part of the lives of

those who knew and loved her.

Willa leaves to cherish her precious memory her beloved husband, Milton Barnes; her

daughters, Aiesha Williams, Ayana Barnes, and Japera Sanders-Vick (Roderick); and

her grandchildren, Maya and Micah Taylor, who brought great joy and love into her life.

She also leaves behind her cherished godchildren, Atalaya Adams, Jalen Stallard, and

Todderyck Smith-Lewis, whom she loved and cared for dearly.

Willa will be lovingly remembered by her sisters, Jacqueline Dufor and Joyce Studamire

(Robert); and her brothers, Cle Merritt (Louise), Julius Stephens (Carol), Gerry

Stephens, and Larry Stephens.

She also leaves behind three nieces and six nephews, as well as extended family

members, friends, and loved ones whose lives were made brighter by her presence.

Willa's earthly journey has come to an end, but her eternal journey with the Lord has just

begun. We take comfort in God's promise that death is not the end for those who believe.

Although we will miss her dearly, we rejoice knowing that she is no longer bound by pain,

sorrow, or earthly troubles. She has received her heavenly rest.

Her family finds strength in the words of Scripture:

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant... enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” —

Matthew 25:21

Willa's love will continue to live through her husband, children, grandchildren, godchildren,

siblings, nieces, nephews, and all those who were blessed to know her. The lessons she

taught, the memories she created, and the love she gave will remain forever.

As we celebrate her life, we do not say goodbye forever. We say, “Rest well until we meet

again.”

May Willa Gean Barnes rest peacefully in the presence of her Lord and Savior, knowing that

she was deeply loved on earth and is now eternally embraced in Heaven.

Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.

Until we meet again in Heaven.