Linda Joyce Barnes, a resident of native of Covington and of Berkley, Calif., was granted her angel wings Monday, March 8, 2010, at Aldleats Hospital of Berkley. Her final days were spent surrounded by family and friends of Oakland, Calif., who Linda had touched in some small way throughout her residence in Oakland.

She was the fifth child born to Eola Lott and the late Houston Barnes in New Orleans, Feb. 14, 1948.

She leaves to mourn her passing and cherish her memories, son, Michael Anthony Barnes and his wife Shawana M. Barnes; two granddaughters, Gabraielle B. Barnes and Mikayla R. Barnes; her mother, Eola Lott of Abita Springs; two sisters, Jackie B. L. Jackson and Dora L. Powell both of Abita Springs; one brother, Zebedee “Mike” Lott of Abita Springs; 34 nieces and nephews and many, many other relatives and friends.

BARNES

She was preceded in death by two sisters, Bobbie Jean Barnes and Betty Ann Barnes Batiste; and three brothers, Houston Jerome Barnes, Prince Albert Hogans and Ronnie Wayne Hogans.

Linda’s life would seem too short to many, but those who were touched by her understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. Her gently smile brought so much joy to our family.

She attended school at Covington Rosenwald, St. Tammany Parish, and Covington and relocated to New Orleans in 1964, at 16. During this time she was employed as a food service technician and later she worked as a sales associate.

Linda lived in New Orleans for 28 years to return to the Northshore where she resided in Abita Springs and Bogalusa. In 2008, Linda decided to relocate to Oakland.

Her interests included family, sewing and reading. She devoted much of her time and energy as a caregiver to family members, including her mother.

Although she was away in another state, she gave us all such courage and hope and reminded us of the preciousness of life. She loved to rock and swing. She could spend hours rocking in her favorite chair while cuddling close to those she loved so much. She enjoyed music and reading. She will be missed greatly by her family and everyone who knew her.