Thelma Ruth Barnes went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, October 2, 2021 at Cappella of Grand Junction. She had been a resident in the memory care center for more than 2 years. Thelma was born in Mulberry, Arkansas on March 14, 1938 to Earl and Goldie Benham. In Thelma’s early years, her family moved to the Bakersfield, California area in search of work during the Great Depression.
Thelma married Howard Norwood and together, they lovingly raised three children: Brian Norwood (deceased); Keith Norwood of Arvada, CO; and Rhonda Eleneki-Martinez (Ray) of Denver, CO. In 1972, the family moved to Grand Junction.
In 1983, Thelma married Joe Barnes in Grand Junction. Thelma and Joe traveled extensively, both in and out of the country. On weekends, they were most likely on one of their hundreds of mini getaways, usually somewhere out in the boonies. They both loved nature and took full advantage of living in Colorado. Thelma and Joe could be found working side-by-side in their beautiful and perfectly manicured yard and gardens for many years. Thelma worked for the Bureau of Land Management and the IRS until her retirement. She earned two bachelor’s degrees in music and sociology.
She loved her husband, children, grandchildren, church work, traveling, her cabin, and making her piano keys sing. Thelma developed an amazing, life-long love for the piano at a very young age. By the age of 12, she was promoted to the role of pianist for her church. She most likely pondered, “why the delay?” She taught private piano lessons for many years, and no, her three children were not exempted from this activity. Thelma was actively involved in church music programs throughout her life. Over the years, she had been the pianist, choir director, choir member, and organizer of numerous cantatas. Often, she assumed several of these roles simultaneously. Thelma loved to share her solid tenor voice and was always at the ready to join in impeccable harmony.
Thelma was a wonderful human being and possessed so many admirable qualities, such as being honest, hardworking, fair, and loving. She loved her Lord, family, honesty, loyalty, and campfire games. Thelma was a doting wife, mother and grandmother, and details were never spared.
Thelma is survived by her husband, Joe; son, Keith; daughter, Rhonda; grandchildren Mahealani Rodriguez (Clem); Kiana Wells (Steven); Karena Winkle; Kimberly Norwood; Clinton Norwood; Candice Ebersohl (Jeremy); Melody Reddick; numerous great grandchildren; and two great-great grandbabies.
Thelma’s graveside services will be held on Friday, October 8, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at Elmwood Cemetery, 1175 17¼ Road, Fruita, CO. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to HopeWest Hospice in Grand Junction.
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