Rites held for Helen Morris Barnes

Published 11:15 am Wednesday, May 11, 2016

Helen Morris Barnes, 90 of Kenbridge, VA died May 2, 2016. She was the mother of the late Lee Barnes and the grandmother of the late David Millner Barnes. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, C. Littleton Barnes, Jr; daughter Pam Wilkinson (Robert); son Scott Barnes (Judy); grandchildren Jeff Barnes (Ashley); Gus Wilkinson (Lauren); Wil Barnes (Mary); Michelle Barnes; Lena Puryear (Rick); great-grandchildren Ryan Barnes; Gracie Barnes; Cade Wilkinson; Allie Puryear; Clay Wilkinson; Libby Barnes and many special nieces, nephews and friends. Daughter of the late Lena Watts Morris and Harry Millner Morris, Helen was born on September 24, 1925, raised in Amherst County, earned her BS degree from Madison College and then taught math in the Lunenburg County Public School System for a total of 29 years. Following her retirement in 1990, Helen served on the Lunenburg County School Board for 13 years also serving as chairperson. Helen was an active member of Delta Kappa Gamma, an honorary society for teachers. She volunteered for years with the literacy program and as CMH Auxiliary Volunteer. Helen was a devoted and active member of the Kenbridge United Methodist Church where she served for years as a trustee and active member of the Pricilla Circle. Helen greatly enjoyed spending time with friends playing bridge, traveling with the Virginia Ramblers, and quilting. She especially enjoyed sharing her love of quilting with fellow quilters and inspiring new quilters to take up the quilting arts. She was a constant inspiration and her masterful way of combining unusual colors into a beautiful work of quilted art is one of her legacies. Her love of family, coupled with her lifelong love of education, will long be remembered. Her special love for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was evident in many ways including the educational funds she established for each of them to further their education. Her influence will be felt for years to come. Funeral services were held on Friday, May 6, 2016, at Clarke Funeral Home, Kenbridge with interment at the Kenbridge Heights Cemetery, Kenbridge. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to the Kenbridge United Methodist Church.