Josephine “Josie” Francis Barnes, 63, of Niles Michigan passed away May 20, 2023 due to natural causes at Spectrum Health Lakeland Medical Center in St. Joseph, Michigan.
Josie was born in South Bend, Indiana to the late Lester and Mildred (Johnson) Mervine on March 22, 1960.
She attended Niles Sr. High school. She married her high school sweetheart, Donald Barnes on April 24th 1978.
Josie worked for Leader Publications for over 20 years.
Josie was the heart of the home. She enjoyed her time sitting at the dining room table surrounded by family and friends. Her sense of humor and laughter would light up the room.
Josie also enjoyed watching wildlife while relaxing in her backyard or on her front porch. She had a special love for animals and her pets. She was a monthly supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Josie was preceded in death by her parents; her sister Susan Leak; her brother Roger Mervine; and her daughter Rosemary Barnes.
Josie is survived by her husband, Donald Barnes; her daughter Samantha (Joseph McKenzie) Barnes of New Carlisle, Indiana; her son Christopher Barnes of Camp David, Wisconsin; her grandchildren Faith and Johnathan Barnes of Niles; her brothers Floyd Mervine of Niles, Claude Mervine of Niles, and Lester Mervine Jr. of Niles along with several nieces and nephews.
A private family ceremony will take place at a later date. The cremated remains of both Josephine Barnes and her daughter Rosemary Barnes will be laid to rest in Silverbrook Cemetery in Niles, Michigan.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, Niles.
Memorial contributions may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105.
Services
Services are private.
Posted On: Wednesday, May 24, 2023 3:52 PM
