June 8, 2011

“God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Evangelist Lenora Barnes died Wednesday, June 8, 2011, at Nansemond Pointe Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center. She was born Sept. 15, 1943 to the late Willie Barnes Sr. and Elnora Barnes. Ms. Barnes was a native of Suffolk, Va., where she resided with her great-niece, Theresa Goodman.

She was a graduate of East Suffolk High School in Suffolk. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in business education from Elizabeth City State University. She received her Master of Science degree in administration and supervision from Old Dominion University. Ms. Barnes completed further study at Virginia State University, Norfolk State University, University of Virginia and James Madison University.

Ms. Barnes retired from Suffolk Public Schools as a visiting teacher and school social worker after 43 years. She was a lifetime member of St. Phillip Pentecostal Church. She served as president of the senior choir, Sunday School teacher, financial secretary, missionary ministry and Pastor’s Aide ministry.

Some of Ms. Barnes’ affiliations included membership in Suffolk Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Virginia Association of Visiting Teachers/School Social Workers, National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals, co-founder of “Energizers Unlimited” and a member of Friends Christian Club, Inc.

Survivors include her brother, Willie Barnes (Annette); sisters, Shirley Stith (Charles) and Phyliss Brown (Rickey); one uncle, Thomas Scott (Minnie); three aunts, Mae Barnes, Minnie Barnes and Magdalene Barnes; four nieces, Shelia Goodman, Countess Reid, Tiffany Barnes and Shawn Tucker (Louis); one nephew, Derrick Reid; five great-nieces, seven great-nephews; other relatives and friends.

A homegoing celebration will be at noon, Wednesday, June 15, at New Mt. Joy Food for Living Ministry, 307 County St., officiated by Bishop Marshall Goodwin. Interment will be in Carver Memorial Cemetery. A wake will be held Tuesday, June 14, 2011, at 7 p.m. at Antioch UCC, 900 Hull St. The body will be at the church from 6 to 8 p.m. The family will receive friends at her residence, 717 Brook Ave. in Suffolk. Crocker Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.crockerfuneralhome.com.