Lucretia Rayvelle Barney

With profound love and deep sorrow, we celebrate the life of Lucretia Rayvelle Barney - known affectionately as Rayvelle to her family and friends - who passed away on March 22, 2025, in Belmont, NC, at the age of 80. Born in Baltimore, MD, on February 24, 1945, to Lucretia West and Bernard Barney, Rayvelle lived a life defined by resilience, kindness, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her stepfather Raymond Eldredge, her brothers Thomas Greenleaf and Ralph Barney, and her beloved sister Cynthia Turner.

Rayvelle’s heart and soul were deeply rooted in her family. She leaves behind her devoted companion, Reginald Bedford. She also embraced his children - Keith Bedford (Shiho Fukada), Marcus Bedford (Zoraida), and Aaliyah Joyner - with warmth and affection. Her siblings, Ramone Pulley (Manuel), Wayne Eldredge (Charie), Evelyn Eldredge, Guy Eldredge, Lynne Barney, and Bernadine Stanley, along with her many nieces, nephews, and a host of relatives and friends, will cherish her memory.

But above all, Rayvelle was a mother and grandmother first. She was immensely proud of her daughter, Rayvelle Antoinette Stallings, MD, and adored her grandsons - Marion Jr., Marcus, Miles, and Malcolm Stallings - who were the absolute lights of her life. Her love for them was boundless, and she found immeasurable joy in watching them grow.

Rayvelle was a woman of great strength and spirit, known for her quick wit, fierce independence, and infectious humor. A proud graduate of Saint Frances Academy, she faced every challenge life presented with grace, tenacity, and an unshakable faith.

Her professional journey was as inspiring as her personal one. She honorably served in both the United States Navy and the Air Force Reserves. Later, she dedicated years of service to the federal government, retiring in 2013 after spending her final working years in Chattanooga, TN, to be closer to her daughter and grandsons. A passionate entrepreneur, she also ran her own catering business, using her incredible culinary talent to bring people together.

Rayvelle’s love for cooking was never just about food - it was also about serving others. She extended her gifts to the homeless ministry at Christ Church Episcopal, feeding not only their bodies but also their spirits. Her generosity knew no limits, and her impact was felt by so many.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures - knitting, traveling the world, and doting on her beloved dog, Boomer, whose steadfast companionship brought her endless comfort and happiness.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to those lifelong friends - Mae Gore, Johnny Rankin, and Mary Knox, to name a few who stood by Rayvelle, guiding, encouraging and challenging her throughout her adventures in life.

The family is also deeply grateful to the medical staff and caregivers at Atrium Health and CaroMont Regional Medical Center, who provided compassionate care during her recent health challenges until her transition.

A Memorial Service and English Tea will be held at Christ Church Episcopal in Chattanooga, TN, tentatively in May, with details forthcoming.

In place of flowers, Rayvelle’s wish was for donations to be made in her honor to:

Christ Church Episcopal

663 Douglas Street

Chattanooga, TN 37403

Rayvelle’s legacy is one of service, compassion, and boundless love. She will be deeply missed, but her warmth, generosity, and loving spirit will live on in all who were blessed to know her.