Mary-Jo Barnes Scott

Mary-Jo is known for consecrating her life to bettering lives, selflessly putting all others before her. She is known for making a lasting first impression, fulfilling all with joy. She made her impact on one encounter and on a constant basis, easily “gabbing” with a sales clerk for 5-10 minutes on end. She is known for her thick and animated Staten Island accent that never faded – even after living in North Carolina for twenty-six years.

She is known for her hard work ethic, often juggling two to three jobs at a time as a single mom. She is known for her compassion and sincerity in all endeavors. She is known for her vibrant spirit amongst the Cary community, making lasting friends at the grocery and retail stores she frequently visited. She is known as a former Girl Scout leader who harbored a love for camping outdoors, arts and crafts (swaps), and cookie season. She is known amongst the T-Mobile community for her zest of life and as a “mom” to all, offering guidance and support.

We like to think that she generously gave so many fragments of her golden heart away that there was nothing left for herself. That was in MJ's typical nature to give, give, give and love acquaintances, friends, family, and community members so voraciously.

She is remembered for her generous spirit, always putting others (even strangers) first and affording happiness with her last $10. She is remembered as a model of strength, resilience, and perseverance when faced with adversity. She is remembered for her ability to whip up a quick “yummish” meal or feast, so bewitching individuals with her buttercream and chicken cutlets that she could easily, without a doubt, take on even Martha Stewart. She is remembered for spending every weekend nurturing and protecting her grandkids from “the snake” or “the bobcat”.

“MJ” was born in and grew up in Staten Island, New York. She spent her early to mid 20s working on Wall Street and taking classes in fashion marketing at the Fashion Institute of Technology (F.I.T). In 1990, “Milly” headed down South to plant roots in Cary. She spent years working as babysitter, secretary, sales representative, and managers in retail sales.

She is a beloved mother, grandmother and “abuela”, daughter, sister, aunt, and godmother. She is the beloved mother to three daughters and the most beloved grandmother and “abuela”. She is the beloved daughter of William Barnes and Maryann Barnes. She is the beloved sister to William Barnes, Sandra Barnes Spencer, Michael Barnes, and Lori Barnes Giustiniani. She will forever be our hero and best friend who lives on in our hearts, which are that much more full because she was a part of our lives.

One of our mom’s favorite quotes:

“Accept the things to which fate binds you, and love the people with whom fate brings you together, but do so with all your heart.”

In lieu of flowers, we hope you consider to "Go Red" and donate to the American Heart Association in honor of Mary-Jo. https://goo.gl/hzjbWp