Ms. Norella Barnes

Ms. Norella Barnes formerly of Saginaw, Michigan

Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. I John 4:11-12

Norella M. Barnes passed away peacefully after a brief illness on January 28, 2026 in Sylvania, Ohio surrounded by love, she entered eternal rest with quiet grace at the age of 75 years. Affectionately known by family and friends as "No talk" or "Noro", Norella was born December 11, 1950 in Saginaw, Michigan.

She was a proud graduate of Saginaw High School Class of 1970 and attended Delta College. Norella devoted many years of faithful service to the United States Postal Service, where she built a respected and dedicated career until her retirement in 2005. A longtime resident of Saginaw, Michigan she also lived in Wisconsin and Ohio. Strong-willed yet caring, Norella will always be remembered for her resilience, generosity and meaningful moments she shared with those she loved.

Norella was born to God-fearing parents and raised in a large, loving family. Her faith was nurtured from an early age and remained a steady foundation throughout her life. She faithfully served the ministries to which she belonged, offering her time and talents in various capacities. Her quiet strength, gentle spirit, and unwavering beliefs guided her through every season of life. Norella found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved playing bingo, cooking for those she cherished, and spending meaningful time with her family-moments that filled her heart with happiness. She also possessed a true green thumb; caring for her plants and flowers was more than a hobby-it was a source of peace, purpose and pride.

Norella leaves to cherish her memory her beloved daughter, Valita Barnes of Toledo, OH; her treasured grandson, Jordan Barnes of Toledo, OH; five sisters, Angela (Wayne) Robbins of Milwaukee, WI, Theresa Jackson of Flint, MI, Joyce Barnes of Atlanta, GA, Ettienne (Tyrone) Walker of Atlanta, GA and Sheila Chapman of Saginaw, MI; three brothers, Milton (Lyn) Barnes of Albion, MI, Derle Barnes of Detroit, MI and Mark (Mary) Barnes of Saginaw, MI; sister-in-law, Earlene Barnes of Saginaw, MI; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews; one god-daughter, Danae Shepard; special cousins, Charles (Midred) Sanders, Jr.; many other dear relatives including special longtime friends, the Woods family, Almeta McCray and Lahoma Anderson along with many other dear friends.

Ms. Norella Barnes was preceded in death by her parents, Elder William and Mother Willie Mae Barnes; two brothers, William Barnes III and Melvin Barnes.

The family will receive visitors at 10:30 a.m. with the funeral service commencing at 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 6, 2026 at The Potters Touch, 1402 N. 6th Ave., Saginaw, MI 48601. Pastor Clarence Lewis will officiate with interment in Forest Lawn Cemetery, 3210 S. Washington Ave., Saginaw, MI 48601

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Hospice of Northwest Ohio, University of Michigan Cancer Center, and all who provided care and comfort during Norella's illness. A more personal expression of thanks will be shared with those who visited, called, and prayed during this time. Your love and support will forever be remembered.

All floral arrangements can be sent to The Potters Touch the morning of the service.