Melinda Shawn Barnes

Mendi was my youngest sister. She was so beautiful, and always had a big smile for everyone. She could turn any situation into a comedy, with her razor sharp wit and special brand of sarcasm. She had a heart of gold. She would be the first one to lend a hand or offer help at any inkling of need, and would continue to help to her own detriment. She was so strong physically, but so soft emotionally, that we called her a gentle giant. She towered above all of us at six foot tall, but never made anyone feel small. She will always be in my heart, and I will love and miss her every day. Thank our Lord Jesus, we will be together again one day, and we will never have to say goodbye again. I love you, Mendi. Rest in peace, little sister. Love always, your big sister, Kimberly.

My beautiful baby sister, Mendi... your sudden and completely unexpected passing has left me broken beyond repair, but for our Lord. Thank you for being such a strong woman of faith. Thank you for leading me to our Lord Jesus. Thank you for always standing by my side, holding my hand, and walking this journey of life with me. My sister, and my best friend. My partner in everything. While I´m so thankful you´re with our Lord, I´d give anything to have you back. I don´t know how I´m going to make it without you, but when I look into the eyes of your only child, I know I must, for her. We did exactly as you asked... no services, no long, drawn out sorrowing... just celebrating your new location... you made it. You´re finally with our Savior, the one who loves us perfectly and casts out all fear. The one who gave his life for us that we might live in Him. The One who took our place and gave us His. You are greatly blessed, highly favored, and deeply loved! Rest in the strong arms of our Lord Jesus, sweet girl, and we´ll see you very soon, never to be separated again. Until then, I will love and miss you every single minute. All my love, always and forever, your sister, your friend, `Missy´

Melissa Wolfe