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Sheila Barnes Obituary
Just the other day, Colgate toothpaste was on sale at a local pharmacy and Zulema Barnes- Chung thought of her mother, Sheila Barnes. That was because Ms. Barnes was a bargain hunter extraordinaire, who transformed the routine of buying household goods into a competitive sport.
"My mom would go so far as to take other people's fliers just to get the coupons," Ms. Barnes-Chung said. "I guess that was stealing, but she did it so she could have three of each coupon. That's how bad it was."
And it was never really about the money. No, Ms. Barnes, who was 55 and worked for Aon, did not cut coupons because she was miserly. "It was a game for her to see who could save the most, a game mostly between her and my aunt," Ms. Barnes-Chung said. "They kept the receipts to show the whole family 'Look what I got!' "
"My aunt says it's not so fun anymore," she continued. "But when I saw the toothpaste on sale, I thought about my mom. I almost dialed her number, before it hit me."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Amalia Moise
September 12, 2023
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. ❤
Duraye Marshelle
September 12, 2023
Miss you to this day, Sheila. :-( Sending peaceful, calming vibes to your extended family.
Nancy
September 11, 2023
To Sheila Barnes family and loved ones - Sheila and her smiling voice are in my thoughts again today. Nancy Rogers
Dale Christensen
September 10, 2023
It’s been a while but I still remember 9/11 because I was on the phone with Ms. Shiela Barnes when the first plane hit the towers. I was working for Zurich Insurance in Rocky Hill, CT and we spoke daily to Aon Risk Services. I have never written about it until today. My family knows but I don’t really discuss it with many people because it doesn’t seem believable.
I remember the line cut out and I tried to call back several times but the lines were busy. I asked several of my co-workers if they had tried Aon and someone else said they couldn’t get through either. Then my buddy Dennis called me over because a plane had hit the World Trade Center. The news was calling it a possible mistake or accident. However, when the second plane hit we all knew it was extremely serious! Then the Pentagon was hit and I remember the paranoia of feeling like planes were falling out of the sky and nobody knew what was happening.
Anyway, Ms. Barnes will always be a bright light in my memory. She was cheerful and happy. We talked a little about how beautiful the day was before tragedy struck. I often hoped she was happy and didn’t suffer in any way.
I offer the family and friends my deepest condolences and hope my story gives them something to smile about! She will live with me forever!
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Jessica Kearnes
February 15, 2023
Sheila was my neighbor....as many have already written, whenever I think of her, all I see is her beautiful smile. She really did have one of those rare smiles that can light up a room or just instantly put you at ease. She was good friends with my parents for many years and I know they miss her terribly. I know it's been twenty years now, but I want her and Zulema and Christine and Rico to know that we haven't forgotten her. I was thinking about her yesterday and today and just wanted to say that she is missed.
Amalia Moise
September 14, 2021
No matter how many year’s passes- Sheila will always be in our hearts and prayers.
- Your love for family and friends gatherings ( always proud of cooking and baking)
- your smile and energy puts a smile on our faces even if you’re not here.
20 years ...still Hard to Say Good bye!
September 11, 2021
Thinking of you Sheila
Duraye Marshelle
September 10, 2021
Thinking of you, Sheila. Gone too soon from our lives.
Nancy Rogers
September 1, 2021
I remember Sheila often. A brief morning call with Sheila was sunshine - I hear her joyful voice to this very day.
Cindy Roe
August 31, 2021
Remembering Sheila on the 20th anniversary of 9/11....
Mary
September 11, 2020
Sheila, thinking if you today.
nancy rogers
September 11, 2020
Thinking of Sheila today and the sound of her most joyful voice. September 11, 2020
My friend would like to return this bracelet to Shelia's family. If her family is reading this please contact me at alexis.l.mraz at gmail.com
Alexis Mraz
September 10, 2016
Irenah Jenkins
September 9, 2016
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
With Love from North Carolina
Del Newberry
January 13, 2016
To all of Sheila's family and friends I pause today to offer a prayer of hope and encouragement to you. From the picture I can see that she was a beautiful lady, and from the many comments, I can see that she was a fun-loving and well-loved person. May we all honor her legacy and go about being good. (and NEVER shop without a coupon!) Love from Texas,
Rosemarie Cannone
September 11, 2015
Sheila just saw you were perished on 9/11 you were a great person we worked in the 5 WTC in 1977 you talk always about your husband Rico and the 2 beautiful Little girls RIP Sheila I will always remember you and the good times we had
Sally
September 11, 2014
Thinking of you and your family today, Sheila.
nancy rogers
September 10, 2014
I think of you Sheila and remember how your smile came right through the phone.
P Warren
September 24, 2013
Bless you and your loved ones Ms. Barnes.
C.P. Carter
September 13, 2013
I have been Honored to have drawn Mrs Barnes name TO proudly display on my helmet,,I attended the 2 Million Bikers to D.C.ride on Sept 11,2013 to Honor those that died that day from cowardly acts of terrorism,,We as American will always Honor these wonderful people,,May Mrs Barnes rest in peace and MAY GOD BLESS
Barbara Boam
January 15, 2013
I walked a mile for you (mile #134) on 1/15/13 as a dedication to your life.
Betty Davis
October 2, 2012
I will always remember her.
miriam moore
September 11, 2012
Sounds like a great lady. My thoughts and prayers are with those she left behind. God bless
Starr Green
June 10, 2012
Altho I didn't kno Mrs Barnes jus readn how warm she was it feels as tho I've already met her,I to have experienced a lost of my own in 02 my 7yr old daughter left ta be with the King (smiles) so I kno what's its like to have lost a person you truly love!,I jus wanta add w/o knowing u I love u already & tears began to flow as I thk of what really went on that day in that buildn,but I'm willn to bet you were already being lifted by the creators angels..a smile as beauti4 & as bright surely has ta be in heaven brightn up the sky,may u serve as a protector that u were called to be,& to mrs barnes fam may tha one seated above us all continue to comfort u all,luv Starr
December 31, 2011
To The Family,
9/11 is a day that truly hits where it hurts,- our hearts. I sincerely would like to offer my deepest condolences in the passing of your loved one. May God's Spirit be with you and strengthen your hope of seeing Ms. Sheila Barnes alive again in the very near future.
Sincerely,
Mr. Terry of NC
Rebeca Peat de Quijada
September 12, 2011
In your name TIA Sheila
Will always remember you.
Rebeca Peat de Quijada, Colon, Rep. of Panama
Sally
September 11, 2011
Although we only met a few times,we spokes several times a week when I would call to speak to my husband Gary. We always exchanged "pleasantries" often about your daughters and of course your granddaughter,Makari,of whom you spoke so lovingly.You are especially in my thoughts today,Sheila.
Celeste
September 9, 2011
You will always be in my thoughts. Today Aon had a Memorial Service. We can't believe it has been 10 years alrady.
God bless
Darrell Marsh
August 13, 2011
To my commuting friend on the LIRR. You will always be remembered by me. I remember how proud you were of of your daughters and all the conversations we had on the train. You were always smiling and we both couldnt wait to get home. May God Bless you and your family.
Elaine Lee-Fassett
September 11, 2009
Ms. Barnes, Today remembering you, as well as your family. My prayers are with your family on this day of rememberance...Rest In Peace!
Inner City Sports Little League
September 12, 2008
It's rainin' but there ain't a cloud in the sky
Musta been a tear from your eye
Everything'll be okay
Funny thought I felt a sweet summer breeze
Musta been you sighin' so deep
Don't worry we're gonna find a way
Remembering what we cannot forget:
September 11, 2001
Gayle MIchener
September 11, 2008
Sheila,
Not a day goes by that I do not think of you and wish that you were still sitting there outside my office and teasing me about not being able to find that file when you knew it was probably right in front of me! Nelida and I miss your laugh and our unforgettable lunches together up at El Quijote. You and all your family will be in my thoughts alot today as I wonder how seven years has passed so swiftly and without you here with us.
Doug Abraham
March 8, 2008
In My Pocket
I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.
My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.
They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.
Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.
But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.
Sheniqua Lee
March 15, 2007
The Jenkins and Jordan families send their warmest condolences to the Barnes family.
kristine
October 16, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Nadia Buckley
September 11, 2006
To the Barnes family, i know u guys dont know me but i was reading about shila and she reminded me so much of my grandmother that died. I just wanted you guys to know that i send my prayers out to your family, also shelia souneded like a wonderful person, and i know she is loved and being missed eveyday. To the barnes family godbless.
P Tabbernor
August 21, 2006
In memory....
Doris Leslie
September 11, 2003
Dearest Sheila: As I watched the 2-year anniversary today, with the children reading all the names, it tears my heart open again to have to face reality and you and so many others that I've worked with over the years are gone forever. I remember days when I used to drag myself in the office after dialysis, and had to lay down in the office, after reminding you that I'm in here and come get me if we have to run out the building. I re-live all those days, Sheila, and it makes me wonder where you actually were in the building on that terrible day. I will ALWAYS miss you and my prayer today is that your family and friends gain strength from God and also they should know by now, that you were an absolutely beautiful person, destined for better places. Rest in peace my dear friend, until Jesus come back for you.
Sincerely,
Tom Price
October 4, 2002
For what you had to experience, along with the countless others, you will remain in my thoughts and prayers.
SANDRA MARCHENA
September 14, 2002
A WEEK BEFORE SEPT 11TH '01 SHEILA CALLED ME AT WORK AND INVITED ME TO THE US OPEN,I COULDN'T GO WITH HER
B/CAUSE I HAD JUST COME BACK FROM VACATION AND DIDN'T WANT TO CALL OUT SICK,SHEILA,NEEDLESS TO SAY,WENT TO THE MATCH THE NEXT DAY AND HAD A GREAT TIME...EVEN THOUGH WE WORKED NEARBY,WE DIDN'T SEE EACH OTHER OFTEN,BUT SPOKE WEEKLY TO CATCH UP WITH WHATEVER WAS GOING ON WITH OUR FAMILIES,I MISS YOU VERY MUCH SHEILA,MAY YOU BE RESTING IN PEACE...MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU...AND TO HER FAMILY,STAY STRONG,GOD LOVES YOU....
Bri-Ann Wright
September 14, 2002
Sheila Barnes was my aunt. I can remember our family Thanksgiving dinners in Brooklyn. My dad and I would drive up from Miami to New York to see the family. I can remember her smiles and giggles, and when she walked into the room it would glow! Her happiness showed through the smile on her face, it lite up the whole room. Aunt Sheila's smile was contagious! She was always concerned about how I was doing. Tia Sheila, "How are you doing?" It's now that I see, a year later, it really clicks and sinks in. My tia, Sheila, is no longer with us. I hope my family in New York including both her daughters Zuleme and Christina are doing well. I send my love. Love Always, BRI.
TAI THOMAS
September 11, 2002
I NEVER GOT TO MEET MS. BARNES BUT I AM SURE SHE WAS A NICE LADY. MY PRAYERS GOES OUT TO ALL THE MARIE FAMILIES WHO HAS LOST A LOVE ONE IN THE WORLD TRADE CENTER AND ON THE FLIGHTS. I AM A CHRISTIAN AND I DO BELIEVE THAT WE ARE ALL FAMILY BY GOD'S WILL.
Carmela Cataudella-Sanzone
September 11, 2002
I met Sheila Barnes when I worked for Frank B. Hall in 1985. I worked in the Personnel department and I was only at FBH for a year and half and remember always running into Sheila. My most fondest memory of Sheila was her big smile and always a postive word to say. I came back to FBH for a visit a couple of years later, and popped in to Word Processing and there was Sheila with a very big hug and smile! Although it's been so many years since I had seen Sheila, my memories of you are very happy ones. And may you be sharing your laugher and smile wherever you are!! I wish your family all the peace and joy that this world may offer and that their memories of you, Sheila, live on and on.
Mary A. Hartmann
September 9, 2002
It's very had to come up with just the right words to say at a time like this. When I first heard of the crash and that she was missing I was very upset and wished and hoped that she found her way out. I knew Sheilia when I worked for Aon Aviation. I think about her from time to time and wish she was here. I sat in front of Sheilia and would see her every morning and throughout the day. She always had a bright smile on her face no matter what was going on. To the family I am deeply sorry for your loss but I know she is watching you always. God Bless the family.
Catherine Antoine
July 22, 2002
This guest book brings tears to my eyes. Sheila Barnes and all other people who died on that day will be remembered - all over the world - for ever.
Rita Garrett
July 19, 2002
I want to extend my condolences the Barnes family on the loss of their wife, mother and grandmother. May God rest her soul. I agree with everyone else, she has a smile that could light up the sky!
Cathy Quinones
July 3, 2002
I worked at Aon on the 102nd floor, I often passed Sheila in the halls she alway greeted me with that smile of an angel.
I would just like her family to know she is still and always will be in my thoughts and I will always keep her in prayers.
Cathy Q.
Luis Cam
June 3, 2002
My dear Sheila, my good friend and my buddy from Panama. I met Sheila three years ago when I started working for Aon. I was so happy when I find out that someone from my country was working in the same company and in the same floor with me. Every time we see each other in the copy room we started talking about things from our home country. The foods, the drinks, the people from Colon and specially the “Carnivals”. She always laughs every time I mentioned her that I need some real “Seco” (a very popular drink in Panama). I will never forget her smile and her happy face.
Sheila, thanks for being in my life and for making me feel like home. I will always keep you deep in my heart. Love you and miss you.
Que en paz descanses querida amiga.
Luis Cam
Richard Pinnavaia
May 10, 2002
I would hold the door open for Sheila and Zulema everyday on the LIRR as the two of them passed between cars looking for a seat. Sheila always had a smile on her face. We talked and found out that we both worked for brokers, she for AON and I for Frenkel. Same Tower just some tall space between us. I miss her smile each morning. I still hold that door open thinking someday she just might walk through and give me another big smile. I miss her.
SELENA FIELDS
May 7, 2002
I would just like express my deepest prays to your family, as I see from your picture you had a smile that would brighten up any room or anyone. May GOD bless your family and keep them strong.
Karen O'Neill Mucci
March 11, 2002
I had met Sheila back when we both were working for what was then Frank B. Hall Aviation (eventually AON) and through the many years since, until I left the company in
1995 - we worked together on many projects - so much of what we did went through Word Processing. Even in the busiest times, her smile and laugh would keep everyone going. Two things I remember especially about Sheila - long talks about religion, and the fact that she was a great cook - she always brought in the best dishes when we had Christmas parties in WPC, and I still have her lasagna recipe. I also remember her pride in and love for her family - along with everyone else in the office, I saw all the pictures and heard all the stories of this loving and proud mother. The world is both richer because Sheila was in it, and now poorer because of her absence, and I was blessed to have shared her friendship. God bless her in heaven, and bless and strengthen her family here.
TERROME PORTER
January 22, 2002
HI MRS. BARNES I MISS U VERY MUCH I MISS THOSE LONG TALKS WE USED 2 HAV REGARDING YOUR GRAND CHILD. AND HOW U USED 2 PEP ME UP WHEN I WAS DOWN THANKS ALOT 4 BEING IN MY LIFE AND U KNOW SOMETHING I STILL HEAR U TALKING 2 ME. THANK GOD 4 SENDING U HERE AND I THINK GOD THAT YOUR WATCHING OVER US. 2 YOUR FAMILY I FEEL YOUR LOST AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS.
Gary Michener
January 22, 2002
Not an hour goes by where I don't think of my assistant and buddy Sheila. I really miss our morning chats about kids and Sheila's grandaughter...and just about everything else. We had the best laughs together and I really don't recall it ever being dull when Sheila was around; her smile was a reflection of her soul. Just the best.
I really miss you Sheila. And my son Kevin will always miss playing with Makari at our Christmas parties. It can never be that great again.
Agnes (Aggie) Romanella
January 18, 2002
I met Sheila in 1995 after the company I worked for, Alexander & Alexander, was bought by Aon.
The first thing that struck me as odd, but wonderful, about Sheila was the fact that she always had a smile on her face and never let anything/anyone get her down.
Don't get me wrong, if she was accused of being a "so-called thief by one of her bosses in "the case of the missing file", you were going to hear it! She didn't need anyone to speak for her. Naturally, the "missing file" seemed to reappear 99.9% of the time on anyone else's desk but Sheila's and she always received an apology :)
Sheila was also very punctual. She was always at work at least 1/2 hour before starting time. Better to be early than late.
We shared some great laughs.
Like the time I caught Sheila snoring away at her desk during her lunch hour or the time she fell off her chair and neither one of us could help but laugh hysterically!
On the morning of September 11, after seeing/hearing the first plane go through 1 WTC, my co-workers and I agreed to evacuate the building.
The first thing I did after gathering my pocketbook/sneakers was to go to the cubicle behind me where Sheila sat to get her. Only Sheila wasn't there. I later found out she was with another co-worker getting breakfast on another floor.
I really wish, for once, that Sheila would have been running late.
Sheila, I miss you very much and think about you every day.
We might have had our freedom taken away from us, but no one can EVER take away my memories of you.
Till we meet again, my friend
Love,
Aggie
Stacy Watkins
January 17, 2002
I worked at AON back in 1993 and left in 1995. I was shocked, hurt and felt deep pain when I heard that Sheila did not make it out. I can still see her smiling face as if it were yesterday. She is smiling with the Lord now, and I'm sure she will always be smiling and keeping watch over her family. To the family I say "Stay strong and stay together". God Bless.
Gladys Jurgen
January 16, 2002
It was a pleasure knowing Sheila. She had a wonderful and easy going personalty. Loved her children and granddaugher. We always seem to meet each other early mornings in Kmart and of course our discussions were about our grandchildren. May God continue to strengthen her family and friends so they can go on. And I truly miss her golden smile.
Linda Miller
January 11, 2002
I didn't know Shelia, but I have a memory bracelet (similar to the Viet Nam MIA/POW bracelets) with her name on it and I will wear it forever. The information on this web page will go into a book I'm keeping about the event and she will be forever remebered. To her family and friends I offer my profound condolences at her loss and hope that you are finding peace in God's love.
Teresa Jahn
January 9, 2002
We are very sorry for your loss of Sheila. May warm memories of times shared together lighten the sorrow in your hearts. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Sharon Cox
January 3, 2002
Shelia, sometimes I feel as if I am living a dream. I really miss you and your bright smile. My the Lord guide and protect your family.
Love,Sharon
IRENE STAPINSKI
December 5, 2001
GOD BLESS SHEILA BARNES AND MAY SHE
REST IN PEACE.GOD BLESS HER FAMILY
AND FRIENDS.GOD BLESS AMERICA AND
MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01
Doris Leslie
November 29, 2001
I'm still trying to come to terms with the fact that Sheila is missing. My desk was not far from hers on the 102nd floor, and we often meet in the copy room to make copies, get a cup of coffee/tea, and to chit-chat. Sheila, wherever you are, may you be resting in peace under the wings of Jesus. I miss your smiling face and your enthusiastic spirit. I wish we could have parted another way, but it seems that you were called ahead of me. Sleep well until later.
Ta-Ta.
Maeola Stevenson
November 21, 2001
When I first started working at AON, my boss at the time asked Sheila if she would go with me to lunch. Of cause she did. Ever since that day Sheila and I have become not only close co-workers but friends as well. Sheila, you will be missed but never forgotten. My heart goes out to her husband, her two daughters, and her presious grand-daughter, whom she always talked about and always showing pictures.
Latisha Arrington
November 20, 2001
I worked at Aon Financial Services for 2 years and can remember seeing this woman in the elevator who looked so very familiar. One day I got up the nerve to ask her if she had a sister by the name of Mynette. In fact she did. Her sister Mynette and my grandmother were close friends from previous jobs. This was how I got a chance to know Sheila and her two daughters, Zulema and Christine during my youth. My family and I send out heart felt condolences and prayers to Zulema, Christine and the rest of Sheila's family. May God bless you during this time.
Latisha
Juanita Daley
November 16, 2001
My heartfelt sympathies to Sheila's family. She will be greatly missed.
kimberley hess
November 12, 2001
God will keep you safe from any harm now.
kimberley hess
Cambridge
Peoria, IL
Gail Morris
November 9, 2001
Sheila and I met in the fall of 1987. She was in Aviation's word processing department and she would help me with the Continental Airlines certificate renewal. We'd spend 14 days and lots of evenings together getting this huge project done. She always had a smile on her face. We'd order pizza, and laugh alot. She had a smile that would lite up a room. On September 10th, her immediate supervisor was in LA for a meeting. After he said hello, he said "Sheila said to send her love to you." Well I send mine back. She will always hold a special place in my heart.
Beulah Houston
November 9, 2001
Eveytime I saw Sheila she always had a smile on her face. The week before this tragedy, I happened to see Sheila on her floor, 102. My boss & I were scheduled to move from the 98th floor to 102 the following Friday. When I mentioned to her that I was moving to 102, her comment to me was "Oh-oh! There goes the neighborhood!". We had a good laugh over that. I will miss her smiling face. BJH
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