Lucy Mae Bagarella

Lucy Mae Bagarella, aged 78, of Jacksonville, North Carolina, peacefully passed away on Monday, April 15, 2024, at Onslow Memorial Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. 

Born on May 12, 1945, in Martinsville, Virginia, Lucy was the beloved daughter of the late Ezra Hairston Barnes, Sr., and Elsie Mae Gilbert Barnes. A graduate of Martinsville High School in 1963, Lucy found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as sewing, crocheting, gardening, and cooking. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her family. She dedicated many years to a fulfilling career as a nurse, where she touched the lives of many with her care and compassion. Lucy’s skills were also seen through her bookkeeping career for numerous years. Lucy loved the lord and was a faithful member of the Catalyst Church in Jacksonville, NC.

Lucy was the pillar of strength and compassion for her family, especially as the devoted wife of Kenneth J. Bagarella for 43 years. She was truly the matriarch of her family. Her proudest accomplishment was raising, supporting and loving her 7 children, 12 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. 

Survived by her family who will cherish her memory, she leaves behind her husband, Kenneth J. Bagarella; her children, daughters, Robin Elliott (Stewart) of Boulder, CO, Gina DeRuise (Josef) of Swansboro, NC, Christina Bagarella (Charlisa) of Jacksonville, NC, Ashley Hoffman of Morehead City, NC and sons, Kelley Nelson (Erin) of Emerald Isle, NC, and John David Bagarella of Jacksonville, NC. She is also survived by her siblings, Carolyn Rakes (Turner) and Marvin Barnes, all of Martinsville, VA. As well as her grandchildren, Emily (Tyler), Bruce, Madison (Dakota), Elizabeth, Dylan, Chase, Gabriella, Ryland Mae, R.J., Bryler, Farrah, Kira; great-grandchildren, Hunter, Elleigh, Scarlett and Ruby; along with a host of other relatives and friends.

Lucy was preceded in death by her daughter, Kenzie Carol Ventura, and her brothers, Dennis Barnes and Ezra Barnes. 

A funeral service to honor Lucy's life will be held on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at Munden's Funeral Home in Morehead City, NC. The family will receive friends at 2 p.m. for visitation, with the funeral service beginning at 3 p.m., officiated by Pastor David Harper. Interment will follow at Gethsemane Memorial Park. 

As an expression of sympathy, flowers are welcome!

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.