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BORN
1934
DIED
2018
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William Barnes Obituary
Resident of San Jose
William Barnes passed away peacefully on Feb. 8. He was 83. He was born at home in Taft, California on May 20, 1934 to Ray and Nellie Barnes. Bill grew up playing on the oil rigs of Taft and Belridge. He attended San Jose State to get his Bachelor of Arts in Education. After serving in the U.S Army for 2 years, Bill taught in the Alum Rock School District for 39 years. He taught at Pala Middle school for 26 of those 39 years. He was a dedicated teacher who was awarded Teacher of the Year several times. He loved his students and was honored when past students stopped by to visit their favorite teacher. He loved traveling with his friends, gardening and flower arranging. He volunteered his artistic skills at Towne Flowers of Willow Glen and Jeannette's Flowers.
He is preceded in death by his parents Ray and Nellie (Addison) Barnes, his sisters Melva Fitchette and Dorothy Hunt, and grandson Sean Braz. He leaves behind his daughter Misty Sanfilippo and son-in-law Dan and grandsons Kyle Braz and Travis Braz. At Bills request, no services will be held. Bill's immediate family will scatter his ashes at sea near Monterey and Carmel.
Remembrances to Bill can be made to St. Jude's Children Hospital or the Alzheimer's Association.
View the online memorial for William Barnes
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Barnes
Sponsored by San Jose Mercury News.
1 Entry
July 14, 2018
Yesterday, I cried after learning that my dearest Mr. Barnes passed away. He taught me in the 8th grade (1982) at Pala Middle School. More than that, he taught me how to good student and became a seminal influence to me. I shared with him news about my family and work. He listened gently and sent inspiritational prose of encouragement. I will always remember your gentleness, Mr. Barnes.
Recently, I started to worry when he sent fewer emails. Would someone be so kind to connect me to his family (Daughter Misty or her family, as shown in the obituary?). It is the very least that I pay my proper respect.
Thank you,
Brian Huynh
[email protected]
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