Ocie Jean Caldwell-Barnes Program

God always knows exactly what we need, when we need it. Thank you, Mom, for walking into my life in 1974, when I needed your love, kindness, wisdom, guidance and yes, humor most. What I learned about you over the next 50 years was that God blessed you with the unique ability to love people in ways that made them feel amazingly special. So, for all the times you walked with me when I felt alone, for all the times you advised me when it would have been easy to say, “you’re on your own”, and for all the laughter and joy you brought to my life, I say thank you. To say ‘I’ll miss you’ couldn’t possibly capture the magnitude of your presence in my life for 50 years. I love you. I honor you. And today and always, I celebrate the woman you were, and the woman you helped shape in me. May you rest in God’s loving arms, until we meet again. ♥ Fran

What is lovely never dies but passes into other loveliness. The love we shared shall live forever, Jean. I appreciate the love you showered onto me, the unwavering loyalty, and pure kindness. I will forever love the joy that I felt in your presence. Sorrow is so easy to express and yet so hard to tell. Not talking to you just crushes me but I take comfort in knowing there is one more angel above us. I think of you and all that you brought to my life. Your memory rests gently on my soul and I am grateful for the love that you gave me so unconditionally.

Candace

There are many kind words I can say to describe Dr. Barnes, better known to me as Ms. Jean. She was my sister, my mother, and indeed a best friend. Whatever I needed her to be, she was that to me. I love her with all my heart, and I will miss her dearly. What I loved about her the most was that she never judged me and that she loved me for me. We did a lot of things together and took many trips together out of town and we were roommates during those trips. Anytime we would depart from one another, it was a must that I call her to let her know I was home and safe. If I missed calling her, she would call me because that's who she was; she exemplified a loving, caring, and compassionate heart. Whenever she needed me, I was there. We shared many laughs, talks, and memories that will forever be in my heart. I always said, “I am my sister’s keeper, and a fight goes with it!” Rest in love and peace Ms. Jean. Heaven couldn't wait for you! Well done thou good and faithful servant! Love, Shar

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