Janice Sue Barnes

Janice Sue Barnes maiden name Russell, age 86, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2026, in Temple, Texas. Known to many as Sue, or “Granny Barnes”, she will be remembered for her gentle spirit, kind heart, and the deep love she had for her family and community.

Sue was born on November 9, 1939, in Bowie, Texas, to Linn William Russell and Rosia Jewell Russell. She spent her early years growing up in Bowie alongside her siblings Carroll “Bud” Russell, Gary Don Russell, and Patricia Greene. Sue later attended Lawton High School in Lawton, Oklahoma where she graduated in 1958.

On August 26, 1967, Sue married the love of her life, Ross Barnes Jr., in Belton, Texas. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and community in Central Texas. Sue was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who took great pride in caring for her family and creating traditions that brought everyone together.

Family gatherings were at the heart of Sue’s home. She was especially known for hosting Christmas Eve and Father’s Day celebrations that her family looked forward to every year. Sundays were reserved for family dinners, where her famous pot roast brought everyone around the table. Sue found great joy in caring for others, and nothing made her happier than spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

A talented and creative woman, Sue had a lifelong love of crocheting and later discovered the joy of quilting. Over the years, she lovingly made baby blankets and quilts for each of her children and grandchildren—gifts that will remain cherished reminders of her love. She was also a wonderful baker, famous among family and friends for her peanut brittle, fudge, and pecan pie.

Sue dedicated many years of service as a data entry specialist at the Cancer Center at Scott & White, where she eventually retired. Beyond her career, she was deeply committed to serving others through her faith. She was an active member of Belton Nazarene Church, where she participated in Ladies Ministry, Prime Timers, and Vacation Bible School—while having also supported the church missionary work. She also volunteered her time with Meals on Wheels, always eager to lend a helping hand to those in need.

Those who knew Sue described her as loving, kind, gentle, and faith driven. She carried herself with quiet strength and grace, and she was immensely proud of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. To her grandchildren, she was affectionately known as “Granny”, a name that reflected the special place she held in their hearts.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents, Linn William Russell and Rosia Jewell Russell; her beloved husband, Ross Barnes Jr.; her sister, Patricia Greene; and her children Keith Barnes, RB Barnes, and Linda Atkins.

She is survived by her children Louis Lidey spouse Janice Lidey, Roger Lidey spouse Vicki Lidey, Carol Grundy spouse Lonnie Grundy, George Barnes, Gary Barnes, surviving spouses Billy Atkins and Betty Barnes. She also leaves behind a large and loving family including 18 grandchildren including spouses, 24 great-grandchildren including spouses, and 6 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom were a source of immense pride and joy to her.

Sue’s life was one defined by faith, generosity, and unwavering love for her family. Whether through a warm meal, a handmade blanket, or a quiet word of encouragement, she had a special way of making everyone feel cared for. Her legacy of love, kindness, and devotion will live on through the many lives she touched.

Visitation will be held at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home in Temple, TX, on March 24, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Celebration of Life at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home in Temple, TX, on March 24, 2026, at 11:00 am.

Burial will take place at Greathouse Cemetery in Temple, TX, on March 24, 2026.