Nelda J. Barnes

Nelda J. Barnes, age 85, of Lawrence, passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026. She was born October 17, 1940, in Pinnacle, Arkansas, a daughter of the late Jefferson Dudley Barnes and Irene Watson Barnes. Nelda graduated Valedictorian of her class at Magnolia High School in New Martinsville, W.Va., and then attended West Virginia University where she received a bachelor's degree in journalism. She taught English for 36 years at Washington High School and Bethel Park High School where she retired. Nelda is survived by a brother, Glen (Doris) Barnes of New Martinsville; two sisters, Judy (Dean) Barnes Baker of Snohomish, Wash., and Leita Barnes of New Orleans, La.; a niece, Glenda (Matt) Gertz of Woodinville, Wash.; five nephews: Jeffrey Barnes of Nazare, Portugal, Steven Barnes of New Martinsville, Nathan (Justin) Baker of Los Angeles, Calif., Samuel Blackwood and Ryan (Jane) Blackwood both of New Orleans; and great-nieces and nephews: Desmond and Irene Blackwood, Brandon, Aidan and Dierdre Gertz and Cannon Baker-Marchert. Family and friends will be received 2 to 6 p.m. Friday, January 16, at the Beinhauer Funeral Home, 2828 Washington Road, McMurray. A light luncheon will follow in our community room.