Helen Barrie Davis Finney

Helen Barrie Davis Finney, a woman of grace, humor and boundless love, died peacefully in her sleep on June 15, 2026. Born on December 26, 1942, in Roanoke, Virginia, Barrie lived a life full of love, warmth and laughter.

Barrie grew up in Martinsville, Virginia, where she developed the strong values and deep appreciation for family that would guide her throughout her life.

Barrie and her devoted husband, Garnett Russell Finney, moved from Martinsville to Athens, Georgia in 1972 with their six children.

A woman of many talents and interests, Barrie had a knack for decorating, antiquing, flower arranging, cooking and entertaining. Her quick wit and keen sense of humor endeared her to countless friends, keeping everyone around her entertained. She was also a fanatic animal lover.

Barrie was involved in many organizations throughout the years, she was a member of the Charity League in Martinsville, a “Pink Lady” volunteer at Athens Regional Hospital and also a volunteer for the Salvation Army. Perhaps most significantly, she was a founding member of St. Stephen's Anglican Church in Athens, where she was on the altar guild and a member of the women’s church dinner group for many years. In recent years, Barrie and Garnett attended services at First United Methodist Church. She dearly loved the many friends she made there.

Barrie will be remembered as the wonderful and beloved matriarch of her large family. She worked tirelessly to maintain family traditions, ensuring that holiday and special events were celebrated together. Her family remains very close-knit, and deeply connected, which is a testament to her.

Helen Barrie Finney, touched many lives with her hospitality, humor and commitment to family and friends. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will be cherished by all who were fortunate to know her.

She is survived by her husband, Garnett, and her children: Ginger Kinman (Quinton), Maggie Barry (Richard), Pepper Finney, Steve Finney (Jan), Barbara Duncan (Jim), and Don Finney. She is also survived by her eleven grandchildren: Helen and Peyton Kinman; Michael and Lucy Barry; Clayton, Ethan, Ariel and Harrison Finney; Davis (Madison) and Drew Finney; Mary Alyce Duncan. Also, her beloved brother, Michael Davis (Susan) and their children, Grace and Benjamin Davis.

She was predeceased by her mother and father, Helen and Hank Davis; her sister, Myra Davis; and her grandson, Matheson Finney.

A service will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 12:30 PM, at St. Stephen's Anglican Church in Athens. A reception will be held after the service at the Finney home.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Athens Area Humane Society.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.