Wanda Diane Barnes

Wanda Diane Barnes was born November 21, 1950 to George and Ella Barnes of Washington, DC, their first born, at Freeman’s Hospital. She grew up in the city, attended public schools and graduated from Roosevelt High School. Wanda was employed as a Secretarial Librarian Specialist at Maritime Government on North Capitol Street, NW until her retirement. She formed lifelong friendships with some of her co-workers. Wanda really enjoyed life. She loved her family and all of the gatherings they shared especially the holidays. She lived near her parents in Northwest Washington. Wanda chose to move out of her apartment and back with her parents as they were aging to better assist them. Her Mom, Ella passed December 26, 2014 and her Dad, George passed July 17, 2018.

Reading her bible daily and conversing with God was comforting to her. She loved reading novels, working cross word puzzles, and traveling. Her favorite pass time included watching old movies and listening to music. Jazz and R&B were her favorite musical choices but mainly the “Oldies but Goodies” from back in the day. Everyone recognized Wanda’s quick wit and sharp mind. She “said what she meant and meant what she said” in a good way. Wanda was always a pillar of strength throughout her lifetime as she dealt with many adversities, trials and tribulations. Her health battles had her hospitalized for several months. She made her peace with GOD and asked to come home. Welcomed to her new home, Wanda passed on during her sleep on March 2, 2021 at the Unique Rehabilitation Health Center.

Wanda was and is still very much loved and will be missed by so many. Wanda shared a “one of a kind” lifelong friendship with Eric. They were loyal friends until her passing. She leaves to mourn her only brother, Dewayne Barnes, her Aunt and best friend, Earnestine Barnes and Kenny Hester of North Carolina, Marsha Smith of Fredericksburg, Virginia, Roger and Mary Toney of North Carolina, nephew Dewayne Winslow, Dewayne Jr., and DeAisa, Edna Barnes, Trina Herrod of Washington, DC, special friends Terry and Maurice, and a host of other family, friends, and neighbors.

Thank you Mary Ellen Daffron of Oakton, Virginia for all of you tireless efforts. There is a very special heartfelt thank you to her “caregivers” that willingly took on the task of tending to her, Lisa, Tonya, Bookie, Pat, Valarie, Shirley, Chester and Eric. We truly “Thank You” 1