WANDA LAVERN BARNES

Wanda L. Barnes, known to many as Ms. Wanda, passed away on September 20, 2023, peacefully at home in Bluefield, VA, at the age of 67. She was born on April 12, 1956, in Bluefield, WV. Wanda was a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Wanda is survived by her sons, Steven Grey and Bryan Kent, her daughters, Kisha Jones, Esq and April Barnes, as well as her grandchildren, Jaylica Barnes, Taeviana Barnes, and Seth Grey. She also leaves behind her godchildren, Anna "Pumpkin," Dwight, Jamie, Habakkuk "Habby," Paulina, Ashia, Alexandria "Lexi," and Lyric. She is also survived by her siblings Edgar Kent, Equilla Redd, Evelyn McAdoo, Regina Redd, Frank Barnes, Claire Barnes, Claude Barnes, and close friends who were like sisters Marie Cheeks and Mary Cruz.  Wanda had numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other friends that were like family that will miss and love her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Hattie Mae Jarmon, her father, Frank Mack Barnes, her sister, Janice Cornwall, her sister, Fracooistine "Francis" Kent, her sister, Cynthia Stephens, nephew Farrell Kent, and her goddaughter Malika Davis.

Wanda found solace and strength in her faith. She was a member of Faith Center Church, having previously worshiped at Tabernacle Baptist Church.  She trusted God as her Lord and Savior and we know she is in heaven celebrating with Him now.

In her free time, Wanda enjoyed crocheting, playing the slots, and spending time outdoors with friends.  She was known to take care of a lot of people's children, as evident by her plethora of God children.  Even if she wasn't your babysitter, she would set you straight if she caught you out of line in her presence.  The schools did not want to see Wanda Barnes coming into the office to advocate for a child.  It was usually not even her own child, and she was usually pointing out something wrong they did.  She was loved by many even when she was "telling it like it is." Her warm and caring nature made her a beloved presence in her community.

A visitation will be held at Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, located at 113 Wilson Street, Bluefield, VA 24605, on September 30, 2023. The visitation will begin at 1pm, followed by the funeral service at 2pm.  Services will be led by Pastor Walter Clay.  This will be a celebration party as Wanda requested.  Feel free to wear purple, or a splash of color to the celebration as she wanted this remembrance and celebration to mirror her joyous and colorful life.

The family would like to thank everyone who has shown love thus far during this time.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to support Wanda's annual Youth Halloween Candy Bucket Event. Donations can be sent to either Venmo: @KishaJones or CashApp: @$apsunny85.  The tradition will continue this year in her honor.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Dudley Memorial Mortuary, located in Bluefield, VA 24605.

Wanda L. Barnes will be remembered for her kind heart, unwavering faith, and dedication to her family and community. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all those she touched.