Josephine Barnes

Josephine Bares was born on September 3, 1941, to Josie and Nolan Johnson in Charleston, MS. She confessed Christ at an early age and united with Poplar Springs Missionary Baptist Church in Enid, MS. Josephine attended Sherman Creek Elementary School in Enid and Allen Carver High School in Charleston, MS.

Shortly, after graduation Josephine moved to Chicago, IL and married the love of her life, Hal Barnes Jr. They were married for 44 years and had two children: Valerie and Antonio

Josephine immediately joined the work force. She gained employment at General Electric/Hot Point and retired after 30+ years of service. After retiring. Josephine couldn't sit still, so she became a school crossing guard in the city of Oak Park, and she served in that capacity for many years. This position provided her with an opportunity to keep a close eye on her grandson, Harold and the other children in the neighborhood. They all adored Ms. Barnes and Harold was also her traveling companion.

Josephine was a natural nurturer, a caring and generous person who always put the needs of others before her own. Her home was filled with love and everyone that entered it was treated like royalty. She was a woman of strong faith and was very active in the church. Wherever a helping hand was needed she was there. She faced every challenge in life with courage and dignity.

She was a source of inspiration to us all. The void left by her absence is impossible to fill.

Josephine was predeceased by husband, Hal Barnes Jr.; both of her parents; sisters; Teena Mary Davis and Sara Maxine Merritt; brother, Nolan Johnson Jr. Josephine is survived by her daughter, Valerie Barnes; Son, Antonio Barnes; Grandson, Harold Barnes; brother, Melvin (Sandra) Johnson; sisters-in-law, Sara Barnes, Maybeen Martin, Patricia Bares, Ruby Daily (Luther), JoAddie Foster, Ethel Dilliard, Erma Barnes, Ruthie Bares and brothers-in-law, Willis Barnes (Runette), and Willie Mitchell Foster (Maxine); god son, Terrance Baldwin and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends

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