Linda Barnes Obituary

Linda Ellen "Lynn" Barnes

Jul 14, 1942 - Feb 8, 2024

Waynesville, NC

Linda Ellen "Lynn" Barnes, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024, following a 14-month illness.

She was born July 14, 1942, in Malden, Massachusetts, to Rolf and Norma (Nelson) Olson. She graduated from Barrington High School in Barrington, Rhode Island, and attended Upsala College in New Jersey.

She was a devoted and loving wife to George and mother to Amanda and Matthew. Lynn and George met in 1964 at Bryant College and were married in 1967 in Alton, Illinois. They moved to Chicago, Illinois, and then to Huron for 20 years, raising their family. In 1992, they moved to Kernersville, North Carolina, and 2004 retired to Waynesville, North Carolina, enjoying the mountains along with their two devoted airedales.

Lynn was always involved with leadership roles in their communities, church, and children's schools. She was President of Junior Womens's League in Huron and volunteered with many organizations in the area. She traveled with George to business meetings throughout the United States, Mexico, and Europe. Her qualities of patience, understanding, and warmth brought her many lasting friendships. She was an outstanding cook and over the years, her neighbors enjoyed her Christmas and 4th of July celebrations.

Leaving to cherish her memory are George; children, Amanda (Daren) Becker of Dunwoody, Georgia, and Matt (Kirsten Philbrook) Barnes of Johnston, Rhode Island; granddaughters, Ali Becker, Addison Becker, and Evelyn Barnes; nieces, Kirsten (Josh) Storey of Asheway, Rhode Island, and Dr. Erica Waddington of Farmington, Connecticut; grandniece, Selma Waddington; and grandnephews, Ian Waddington and Sebastian Guevara.

Lynn was preceded in death by her parents; and sister and brother-in-law, Marty and Bob Jacobson.

She did not desire a funeral, requesting cremation with her ashes to be scattered at sea of the coast of Galilee, Rhode Island.

Donations can be made to Sarge's Animal Rescue in Waynesville, North Carolina, for a life well-lived.