Doris West Barnes
1936-2021
Doris West Barnes died peacefully on May 22, 2021, her children by her side.
Doris was born in Alvin, Texas, on July 20, 1936, to Aubrey Nichols and Willie May West. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Harold Wingard and Arnold Wingard; and her husband, Bobby Joe Barnes. She is survived by three children, Blake Barnes, and twins, Stacy and Lyle Barnes; sister, Lee Chandler; grandchildren, Travis, Matt, Tuesday, Stormy and Lucy; best friend, Sharon Oakes and numerous friends and former students.
Doris lived a life of love and service to God, her church and community. Her humble generosity and gift for extravagant hospitality was known to all around her. Devout in her faith, she consistently demonstrated both strong personal faith and acceptance of others. She was a gifted Sunday School teacher and an incredible friend to many. "THE TRUTH OF THE MATTER IS", Doris was more than just a mom to Blake, Stacy, and Lyle. She was "DB" to Sharon, "Sis" to Lee, "Grams" to her grandchildren, "Friend" to so many, and simply "Mrs. Barnes" to thousands of former students and colleagues.
The first in her family to graduate from college, education was extremely important to Doris. She earned degrees from Alvin High School, Bethany Nazarene College and the University of Houston. She began her forty-five-year career in public education in Galveston Independent School District where she taught for three years before moving to Pasadena Independent School District. Her forty-two years in PISD included teaching at South Houston Elementary, South Houston Intermediate School and San Jacinto Intermediate School. She then became an administrator at Pasadena High School and finished her distinguished career as principal of South Houston High School for eleven years. Relentless advocate, fierce protector, guide and mentor on important life lessons, she encouraged and motivated those around her to fulfil their potential. She worked tirelessly to provide opportunities for all. A colleague wrote these words about Doris, "She was the ultimate servant and touched many lives. She never shied away from work and always did the heavy lifting to make things better." She led with strength and humor. Her brilliance, integrity, sense of justice and persistent determination was a force to meet and won deserved respect. Doris West Barnes was a person of influence and impact and she changed the world.
Doris did not want a public viewing; however, a time for family and friends to gather and remember her will be held on November 6, 2021, at 10:30am, South Main Baptist Church.
Those who wish to honor her memory and life work may consider making a donation to the Tilman White Scholarship Fund.
Tilman White Scholarship Fund
PARSE (Pasadena Area Retired School Employees)
PO Box 58432
Webster, Texas 77598
Contact June and Bruce Tade
713-473-0751

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Published by Houston Chronicle on Oct. 30, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Doris Barnes

Sponsored by Rosewood Funeral Home in Pasadena.

9 Entries

Nettie Warren

December 2, 2021

Truly sadden to here about the death of Ms. Barnes. I worked at SHHS for a few years and Doris was our fearless leader. I remember she told an assistant principal as he was heading off to be a principal at a new school "to never let them see you sweat." Mrs. Barnes was outspoken, fearless, helpful and yet she had a kind heart. Condolences to Sharon, Blake and the rest of the family. May she rest in the loving arms of our God.

Jerry Simons

November 13, 2021

I will be forever grateful that when you call she answers and she listens. Her decision made a difference in our family and I love her for it. She very simply was an anchor that held tight.

Kenneth Hockin

November 3, 2021

I'm sadden at the passing of Doris West Barnes. I grew up with her in Alvin, Texas. She was a kind person. We attended the same church and she was a person of faith.

Tani Traver

November 1, 2021

Doris was not only extremely intelligent, she was sassy and could back it up with her preparedness and drive . Doris had passion. Doris had faith. Doris had confidence . Doris was my friend
"The truth of the matter is" she had a twinkle in her eye when she was trying to make a point, " like gotcha" didn´t I? She was a innovator in education.
I´m sure her 3 children will have stories and memories to share a lifetime . How lucky you 3 were to have a mother like her; never afraid and full of passion for life, her friends, and her family.

Fred C. Perkins

November 1, 2021

Doris Barnes was my high school principal at South Houston Sr. High. I highly respected and admired her.

Stephanie Hensley/Jones

November 1, 2021

My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Your mother was an amazing role model for so many students and educators. I know she will be greatly missed.

Yolanda Guadalupe Garcia Sandoval

October 31, 2021

My condolences to her friends and family.... I went to south houston high school 1998-2002 she was a sweet and very nice person to be around with we'll all miss her turly....

Mary Obenauf

October 31, 2021

Doris Barnes was my hero! She was the definition of smart, savvy, compassionate, and strong! Throughout her career she touched lives and made a difference. She was unafraid. She took on giants and never wavered from what she believed was right. I loved her, admired her, and will miss her. Doris thank you for being YOU!!!!

Paul Hartweck

October 31, 2021

I owe my career to Doris. She was a wonderful person to get to know and I enjoyed being her friend. Her legacy at SHHS can be seen even today and her devotion to making it a great place was great.

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