Annette G. Barnes

Annette Gwendolyn Barnes descended peacefully to her heavenly home on Thursday, November 3, 2016. Gwen (as she was known by family) was born in Elizabeth City, North Carolina on February 6, 1955 to the union of the late Floyd W. Sutton, Sr. and Geneva Sutton. She was the oldest of four children. Gwen attended Elizabeth City State University where she received a degree in Early Childhood Education. She went on to teach in various school systems and taught for over 40 years until her health no longer allowed her to. In her professional life she was known as Annette and she left a remarkable imprint on the hearts of her students and colleagues. Gwen was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Gwen married her high school sweetheart, Darnell Barnes, on March 5, 1977 and to this union two sons were born. Gwen was reared in a Christian home. As a child, she joined St. James A.M.E. Zion Church. There she was able to display her love for singing. She served as choir director for many years. She had a no nonsense attitude when it came to choir rehearsal, so you needed to be on time and ready to sing!! Later in life she became a member of Grove Baptist Church and served faithfully on the Mass Choir. Gwen had a great sense of humor and an infectious laugh. She loved her family more than anything. Talking to her mom, sisters, aunts or cousins several times a day was her greatest joy. She fought a good fight during her illness and she will be missed immensely. She leaves to cherish her memories, her husband, Darnell; two sons, William Barnes of Charlotte, NC and Sean Barnes of Jacksonville, FL; mother, Geneva Sutton of Elizabeth City, NC; two sisters, Julie Turner of Elizabeth City and Anita Hairston (Jerry) of Virginia Beach, VA; one brother, Floyd Sutton, Jr. of Colorado Springs, CO; aunt, Earline T. Waldron of Elizabeth City, NC; five grandchildren, Deshon, Dorian, Kevan, Maniya and Dallas; two devoted cousins who were more like sisters, Jean Griffin of Camden, DE and Deborah Staten of Elizabeth City, NC; and Stephanie Barnes, who she loved like a daughter and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Annette G. Barnes

February 6, 1955 - November 3, 2016