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McGuire Funeral Service, Inc.

7400 Georgia Avenue NW

Washington, District of Columbia

Barnett Williams Obituary

WILLIAMS, BARNETT EDWARD

On Friday, March 3, 2006, beloved son of the late Berry and Aretha Williams. He is survived by his son, Barnett O. Williams; sister, Carolyn A. Miller; life partner, Janice Burgess; two nieces, six nephews and other relatives and friends. Visitation will be held on Friday, March 10 from 6 to 9 p.m. at McGUIRE FUNERAL HOME, 7400 Georgia Ave., NW. On Saturday, March 11, visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until time of service at 10 a.m. at The Imani Temple, 609 Maryland Ave., NE. Interment Lincoln Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the DC Percussion Society.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on Mar. 8, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Barnett Williams

Sponsored by a friend ad infinitum.

Not sure what to say?





Pamela Holt

February 15, 2025

Just saw you on a SNL reel with Gil. Your warmth, kindness and musicianship will always be remembered. Rest with the ancestors.

Brother Babatu

March 3, 2024

And here we are...2024, and we honor your presence of the past eternally. Needless to say you are missed by all who experienced your humanity.

Words now swirl around in my head as I try to express the Love in my heart that few musicians ever do with words...We play it out...On your day I am going to Malcolm X to say just that...Peace Brother,...the elusive sentiment we all seek.

kehembe

March 2, 2022

Continue to have great memories of Barnett's drum work. He was an inspiration and a true legacy.

Earl is looking sraight-ahead!

October 22, 2016

Habari Gani! It's getting cool again. This season we played Afro-Cuban rhythms all summer (congas only) to counteract the cacophony of the enthusiastic albeit untrained djembe drum circle participants. They resist instruction.

Brother Earl departed in December at 73, a few weeks before his birthday. He has been added to the Drum Call. We are all getting up there,....I/we still feel you.

Charles Khumalo

November 24, 2015

Rest In Peace

kehembe

October 6, 2015

Bro. Barnett we shall always cherish and remember your drum messages in the DC community. Continue to rest well, watch and teach.

Danny Dooberstein

October 4, 2015

Brother I just found out you made the transition this very moment, and I wanted to say that I saw you on Saturday Night Live playing will Gil Scot Heron and you stood out to me more than anyone in the band!!!!

You were shaking that shaker and you went absolutely mow mow with it!!!!!

Your performance was so good, the camera man focused on you the entire song. Richard Pryor was the host that night! Peace man, I love you, yet I never knew you!

Babatu Y Olubayo

April 13, 2015

Well Brother, We kicked the season off yesterday with Rhythms dedicated to you,..Bright Moments indeed. Malcolm X Park is more Meridian Hill today. The Drum Circle has rough edges albeit the Old-Timers are trying to hold the line. We may move to Marvin Gaye Park. You are still missed!

kehembe

March 16, 2015

Saw you recently on a rerun of SNL. Brought back many memories of you and the drum collective ancestors. Continue to rest and send your teaching/playing energies to the young drummers.

Reggie Bell

March 14, 2015

It was great learning from you for many years Mr.B,since day#1 you've put alot of energy and time in us when no one else would....I know your watching over us bcuz I still hear your voice always at the right time,me and the boys will never ever forget you ever!!!"Drums Of Fire"

Babatu Olubayo

March 27, 2014

Just thought I would holler,..Like you I am getting up there in age,..Just thought I would continue to remember. Yes, we still call your name. Hopefully we will play together again,..with Baba Ngoma, Doc Taylor, Mahmadi, Akbar Bey, Victor (Fats) Smith, and a plethora of other percussionists. Peace.

Babatu Olubayo

January 1, 2013

It is 2013 and It is a New Year. Just wanted to say that You are still honored,..loved by all of Us in the Park,..and sorely missed. We know You are drumming in Heaven with Mongo, Chano Pozo, Baba Ngoma, Doc Taylor, Mamadi, Tito, Victor (Fats) Smith,..Art Blakely,..and a ton of others,..Keep the beat going,..If I am forgiven for a few things I hope to join you. And I am not rushing though,..Hari Gani and Kwa Heri!

Babatu Olubayo

March 8, 2011

My Brother!

You are STILL missed. The cacophony of cluttered confusion that you would mold into a Majestic Matrix of Music sorely yearns for your unique Leadership. But I guess we all miss you Brother,..Your name is called every time I have ventured out to the Park,..and You are Kept Alive to the new Initiates by Legends told. Words will never capture the Wisdom embodied by Spirit, All we can do is Humbly attempt to be Your Reflection. Love Always.

a friend ad infinitum

March 4, 2011

Barnett today on the 5th anniversary of your passing you are never forgotten. Always remembered with joy!
My love to all of his family and friends.

Kenneth Wilcots

May 29, 2007

To the Williams Family, My condolences to you for your beloved loss. Barnett deepened my appreciation for music and percussion specifically. He will always be remembered. Play on...
Kenny Wilcots May 2007

Doc,..You really Healed.

Babatu Olubayo

May 8, 2007

My Brother,

I felt youe Spirit and reached out for you on your Transition Day. I have been up to the Park a couple of times,..Only a few Bright Moments,..Will I ever say that I don't miss The Love between My Tumbao and your Drum(s), my bell and your Shekere,..Nope. What we need to do is Celebrate Your Life This African Liberation Day in the PARK! Me,...Um gonna contact as many of your Percussion Family that I can. And anybody that experienced your love can participate in any manner to pay Tribute. Reserve Yourseelf a Place Under His Tree!

Kevin Lambert

May 7, 2007

I just found out about this guest book and wanted to show respect. Barnett was the unifying force behind any music he made. He was incredibly patient and helpful with the amateurs who came to play in Malcom X Park. He was the one with the moral authority to mitigate the squabbles and sloppiness that all outdoor drum circles seem to have. We are still playing in the park, but we miss him each time

Babatu Olubayo

March 6, 2007

I felt your In(ner)fluence earlier this week,..The MOON was full of Grace...I looked over in the Corner of my room and realized that the bata drum I took out a year ago still sat where I placed it when I Heard,..

Now It is Time. to Play. This wonderful illusion of Life is about Timing.

I like the others, are so Grateful to God the Good for giving us our portion of Time with you, Brother Spirit.

Peace Again.

Brother Babatu
(And eYe still see you under the Tree of Life.)

Cynthia Hobley

March 4, 2007

One year has come and gone...still hard to believe Barnett is sitting in heaven with Steven, Mom Rosie and so many more I love. I know it must be a glories time since they now have Barnett playing, sing, and dancing. What a joy they must be having. Just think what our reward will be in the end, when the Lord calls us home.

Love,
Booe & John

January 18, 2007

BABA Barnett,

It has been a very rough year. You are truly missed. It was an honor to be your last student. I wear it with such pride. Being trained under you has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. You took on a handful I know. I love you and miss you dearly. You will forever be in my heart. You will forever be the heart of the drum circle in Malcolm X Park and drum circles beyond. With every drum that beats is the flow of your heart.

Angela "Anjeenlah"
Female percussionist
Malcolm X Park Drummer

Sharon Frye

April 11, 2006

On behalf of the group BRUTE, I would like to send condolences to the Williams family and friends. Doc was admired by us all. Our memories of his talents and our times with him in DC will live on. I hope knowing that our hearts and prayers are with you will bring you comfort.

Fernando `Léo´ Leobons

March 28, 2006

It´s with great sorrow i write these lines, to join Barnett´s family and friends in prayers for the spirit of this great man and drummer. I am one of those who were lucky to know him and be inspired by his drumming and his passion for the drum. Ibae, Barnett Williams! Your spirit lives in our drums and in our hearts.

BERNARD WRAY

March 28, 2006

My sincere condolences to the family of Barnett Williams, and I want to let it be known that if it were not for Barnett things would be a lot different for me. Barnett was my first teacher in 1968 at the New Thing art and architecture center in Washington D.C. Every time I saw Barnett after those years the first thing I said to him was THANK YOU!!! And now we won't see each other again but I still want to say it, so, I say THANK YOU!!! To the sprit of Barnett E. Williams, and to the spirit that compels one man to commit himself to others for the sake of education and preservation of the drum culture here in the U.S. THANKS FOREVER



Bernard Wray(Omo-Esu Omo-Ana~)

Brother Babatu Olubayo

March 22, 2006

Barnett, I'm still trippin',..CLANG called me on Sunday, the day after and informed me of your departure,..I went into a fog,..I had brought out my Bata set on Friday to bring to the Park on Sunday,..I tried to submit my feelings to Your Spirit and Family but the machine would not take the message,..like you I'm a sixtyish senior citizen,..But anyway, I'll still try to keep the "Bottom" on Sunday's,..Brother I MISS YOU,.. thanks for over twenty years of rhythm, roots, and realism. PEACE.

Simbo Ahbuba

March 17, 2006

Barnett E. Williams was my first teacher and the first drummer I saw when I landed in DC in 1972 from Philly. I was hanging out at HU and Barnett comes in with a little jembe while a dance teacher named Phil was holding modern dance recitals for all high schools in the DC area. He didn't know me from a can of beans but said, "Hey young brother, hold this rhythm down and let's jam" and away we went. That was Barnett, always open and ready to teach and share. Thank you very much for welcoming me to DC.

Vivian Owens

March 16, 2006

Rest in Peace my friend

linda shider

March 14, 2006

To the Family and Friends of Barnett Williams:



I will always remember Barnett for his passionate love of all things to do with percussion, specifically African drums and their unique sound. I am so glad that this love endured and he was able to share this love with others when he played. My sincerest condolences in this time of loss.



Linda "Brown" Shider

kehembe v eichelberger

March 14, 2006

Barnett was one of the first brothers we met in the traditional drumming life. He has been a strong teacher and an excellent mentor in this community. As he sits with the ancestors, we will continue to hear and feel his drum beat. Our thoughts and prayers to his family.

Lionell Thomas

March 14, 2006

On behalf of the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, I would like to express my deepest condolences the loss of Barnett Williams. Although we celebrate his life, the Arts Community mourns the passing of a cultural soldier. We acknowledge his service as a commissioner at the Arts Commission. I remember Barnett as always being a passionate and committed advocate for what he believed. We will miss him as a part of the Commission family.

HILTON FELTON

March 14, 2006

My sincere regrets to the family of my dearly departed brother, HU schoolmate, fellow artist, and friend who was much loved and respected. May the memories sustain you as well as GOD's richest blessings. I was honored to know him.



Sincerely,

HILTON FELTON

Gay Pop

March 14, 2006

Oh my goodness my brother has gone to the ancestors. I have many fond thoughts of the brother. We use to sit under the trees on the campus of HU and discuss the impact of Jimi Hendrix on music and the coming black revolution. My brother I will truly miss you.



Gay Pop

Theo Gardiner-harris

March 14, 2006

Barnette, to you and your family I am very sorry for your loss and will remember all of you in my prayers. From my family to yours. Roy's sister.

Cheryl Pitts-Bryant

March 13, 2006

I had the God given privaledge to work and tour brother Barnett and The Midnight Band; singing to the rhythms of beats unique only to him. I believe that our lives are divinely designed and the paths we walk are for the lessons we need at that time. "Doc", you were a teacher then, and as your legacy lives on and your spirit roams this earth,I for one am so glad to have been blessed to know you and to have understood your unique language. I'll never forget and I will tell the story. Family, please celebrate, because his name is good, his name is righteous and life was the truth. God Bless You...pitts

Jaynell Iverson

March 13, 2006

To the Williams Family: Barnett and I spent our first 6 years together (in Park View Elementary School) and on Rock Creek Church Road and Quincy Street, NW. Most of you will not remember me, but he always called me Bunnie. I will always remember him and you have my deepest sympathy.

Brian Jackson

March 12, 2006

I was a student of African music. All African music. And after reading Blues People, I knew that all of the music that black people made was African music. I didn’t know as much about percussion as I would have liked, though. Charlie Saunders and Eddie 'Adenola' Knowles knew a lot, and the rhythms that they played behind Gil’s poetry helped to make 'Small Talk at 125th and Lenox' the success that it was. I wanted more drummers! I thought that, in order to properly execute rhythms, we should have 3 percussionists. The search was on.



At the time, we lived in D.C., and when the word went out that we were looking for another percussionist, almost everyone we spoke to said, “Go to Columbia Road in Northwest DC, there’s a place there called the ‘Society for the Preservation of African Percussion,’ and look for a guy named Barnett”



I thought, “Wow! A dance troupe! Lots of young, supple sisters doing African dance! How could I go wrong?” So I called the number that I was given and set up an appointment to go to the school.



When I got there, it was dead quiet. I thought I had the wrong address. I walked up to the second floor and opened the door. There were no girls. In fact, there was no one – wait! There was someone. Alone in the middle of the open space, which was obviously used as a dance studio sometimes, was an extremely fair-skinned man in a straw hat, clad in a sleeveless African-style shirt, pants and sandal-shoes. He was fiddling with something – was it – an amp? What the hell did he need an amp for? As I came closer, I saw that it wasn’t just any amp, but a Fender Twin, the premier amp that most guitarists prefer. And there was a mic, on a stand, perched between two conga drums. Hold on! There was another mic – this one, I was to find out shortly, was for him to sing into. He sat down on his stool and began to play. The sound was thunderous. It filled the huge space as I had never heard drums fill a huge space before. He began to sing a chant. It sounded so – authentic! I walked closer now, clearly in awe. Here was the Jimi Hendrix of hand drumming! I’m pretty sure now that he knew I was there from the minute that I opened the door. He looked at me now, with a boyish grin that I later knew to be the Barnett Williams smile. He stopped and introduced himself. I did the same. He then began to teach me about the rhythm that he had just played, what it was called, what part of West Africa it was from, the name of the song that went with it and the lyrics. And if that weren’t mind-blowing enough, he got up and began to dance the dance that went along with it as well!!!



Dumbstruck, I mumbled something about a rehearsal, when I had gone in meaning to say something about an audition, but clearly there was none necessary. Our meeting had lasted all of fifteen minutes.



I walked back out into the spring air of lunchtime Columbia Road, NW in Washington, DC. I had not only found a percussionist, but a friend – and a teacher. When it comes to percussionists, I have been spoiled for life. I laugh at most of the drummers who say that they play percussion. I know what it is supposed to sound like.



Doc, you are sorely missed, but rest assured knowing that, thanks to what you have taught me, and so many others, the Tradition will continue for generations to come.

Renee Sumby

March 11, 2006

To the family of Barnett,



May God wipe your tears and hold you near in this time of bereavement for Barnett. All hail to this master of the drum and one who brought the rhythm to our feet!

Cliff Booker

March 11, 2006

BARNETT,

YOU HAVE ALWAYS BEEN MY HERO ! THANKS FOR THE LIFE LESSONS THAT YOU SHARED WITH ME ! GOD BLESS U

DR.B !!!!!

CLIFF BOOKER

Dennis Friday

March 11, 2006

My condolence to the Williams family,his companion Janice Burgess and family.Its has truley been a remarkable pleasure to have known Barnett for forty years.I was seven years old when Barnett took a group of kids at Woodson Jr. High recreation center in 1967 located in N.E. Washington,DC. We were the best drummers in the world.This is the mark that BARNETT WILLIAMS left on us, this is the mark he left on me .Be the best in all that is good.Thanks for making a difference in my life,may your energy and your spirit stay with me to eternity.May God bless you and peace be upon you.One of the original drummers of the African Heritage,Dancers,and Drummers.

JoAnn Williams

March 10, 2006

Barnett, what a turning point in my life and career when we worked so hard together and with so much dedication to and for the children of this city in the Levine outreach programs. The road was sometimes rough and the going was tough, but never was there any doubt about our love, faith and dedication to the work we did. Barnett, you educated many and changed people's lives. What a great legacy!

Nicole Lockette

March 10, 2006

To The Williams Family:

Barnett's spirit shone bright in everyone life he touched, death ends a life not a relationship. Until we all meet again, his passing is a loss to us all and he will be missed

Al Maddox

March 10, 2006

This life, filled with truth and intensity, is a joy forever.

I give thanks for the joy given and shared.

Larry McDonald

March 10, 2006

As I write this,I am looking at a polaroid shot of Doc & I at Breakfast in the Radisson hotel in Burlington Vt.The date is 4-2-1978 He was on the road with the Midnight Band, & I with.Taj Mahal.Both bands would cross paths & share hotels in those days.His awesome command of the djembe has, I think stunted my growth on that instrument to this day. Not his fault-I knew I would never play it like that & if I could'nt,I didn't want to.Ffwd to 1981.Th Midnight Band had morphed into the Amnesia Express & I was asked to fill-scratch that-sit in his chair (which he could have claimed in any day of the next 22 years I sat there).The fact that I realised NO ONe replaced "The Doctor"made it easy for me to concentrate on doing what we both had a passion for-playing hand drums.Neverthe less when the A/Express played an outdoor gig in a park in SE D.C.I had some trepidation,wondering if he would come.Toward the end of the show I knew he was there because I felt a presence behind me & did not have to turn to see.I knew it was him.Afterwards we spoke.He wished me well & gave me some advice which I wont share.Go ahead Doc,if we do meet again,we shall smile.If not, this parting was well made.A thousand drums salute you!

Fort Hunt Sacc

March 10, 2006

The staff at Fort Hunt SACC will truly miss Mr.B. Our deepest Sympathy and prayers to the family.

Ronnie Friday

March 10, 2006

R.I.P. Dr. "B", There will never be another like you. When I close my eyes and listen close enough, I can hear that "Wa,Wa,Co", coming crisp and sharp,and your solo coming in right on time. May G'd enjoy you playing up there in Heaven,as many of us have here on earth. Thank you for all the advice and for teaching me the art of drumming. You will be sorely miss, but never forgotten. Peace & Blessing, Brother Ron Friday

Al Maddox

March 10, 2006

My sympathy to the family and friends of Barnett, my friend since 1966.

HIS LIFE, FULL WITH TRUTH AND INTENSITY, IS A JOY FOREVER.

I GIVE THANKS FOR THE JOY GIVEN AND SHARED.

Michael Friend

March 10, 2006

I feel blessed to have known Barnett. As a fellow percussionist I'm glad that we had a chance to fellowship and share ideas. You will be sorely missed. God Bless You!

Our Prayers are with the family.

Kim Young

March 10, 2006

His gentle spirit, smile and most of all his music will be missed on the ninth floor.My prayers are with all of you.

Alan Clarke

March 10, 2006

To the family and loved ones of my dear friend "B.Eddie" Williams you are in my thoughts and prayers as we all try to accept the lost of such an inspiring and spiritual man. Thank you B. Eddie for sharing your wisdom and worldly insight with me as a young student/musician and friend at Howard. Let the rhythms play on and the sweet language of your drums never cease.



Peace

Albert and Delia Council

March 10, 2006

Barnett was a wonderful father and friend. We spent much time together during our years at Howard and the years after Howard. Barnett, you will surely be missed. We love you. God bless and comfort his family.

Khadijah Bey (Geico co-worker)

March 10, 2006

Barnett Jr.,

My family prayers are with you during this time. Always remember that God loves you and your family.

From,

Pamela Jacquet Davis MD

March 10, 2006

It is with a heavy heart that I send my condolences to Barnett's family and loved ones. As a Howard alum, I remember many good times with my friend Barnett....I will cherish them.

Francis Blay

March 10, 2006

This is really painful. What a loss!!. The joy he brought to the kids and everyone around him will be missed. He was indeed a wonderful father to a wonderful son who is a dear friend to me.

Doctor 'B' You will be missed.

Tony & Michelle Williams and Sharina Jagoonanan

March 9, 2006

Those who bloom in our hearts never fade away. May his family and friends find comfort and strength in their memories. Our prayers are with you.

Linwood Slayton

March 9, 2006

Barnett was a visible man while we were at Howard back in the day. He will be missed by the entire HU community. His music and his personable nature remain a special memory. Peace and blessings to the family.

Pamela G. Holt

March 9, 2006

Dear Janice and Family,



I am so sorry to hear of Barnett's passing. We first met years ago when I was at Howard and we looked up to him as "Doc," the wise teacher and friend. Many years later, he served as a Commissioner on the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities while I was director. He continued to give his knowledge and expanded resources for artists throughout the District. His strength of character and commitment to helping others will be greatly missed.



Pamela

Ruth Simpkins

March 9, 2006

Janice,



My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. Barnett has inspired me through the many trainings he provided in the School Age Child Care Program. He truly will be missed.

Didi Bailey, M.D.

March 9, 2006

Please accept my most sincere condolences upon the death of my old friend, Barnett. It was such a pleasure to watch him grow into an exemplary man who so loved and enjoyed life. How fortunate were we all to have enjoyed his presence.

Stephanie Benson

March 9, 2006

Dear Janice, family, and friends,



My thoughts, prayers, and support are with you and to all who were touched by Barnett and his gifts. Know that I would be there to support you if I could.



Stephanie Fowler Benson

Robin Whitten Patton

March 9, 2006

Dear Janice, family and friends- my sincere sympathies. Barnett will be missed. My prayers and thoughts are with you. Love, Robin (Bird)

Dionne McAdoo

March 9, 2006

Mr. B will truly be missed. There will never be another all around great guy like Barnett Williams. I am truly lucky to have been able to know and learn from him and I am thankful for all that he has shown me as an artist and a person.



Keeping the beat of the drum going- Dionne( Springhill II SACC)

Osei Miller

March 9, 2006

I will always remember you for your sense of humor, work ethic, and your desire to share your knowledge of music or life experience with anyone you came in contact with. Never met anyone like you. Although you left us suddenly, I will never forget the good times. R.I.P. Uncle Barnett

Anne Soriano

March 9, 2006

Barnett was like a shooting star. Just because his brilliance and vibrancy can no longer be seen with our eyes doesn't mean it isn't still there. He was and will forever more be a radiant burst of light and energy that will shine brightly in the hearts of all who had the great fortune to know him, if only too briefly.



I extend my deepest condolences to Barnett's family, loved ones and friends. He will live on in my heart eternally.

W. Cissy Francis

March 9, 2006

My deepest condolences to the Williams family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Barnett will be truly missed!

Diallo Sumbry

March 9, 2006

On behalf of The Adinkra Group and Farafina Kan, we thank you for your life and legacy. We know that you have joined the ancestors in that ancestral realm where you will continue your work. We will continue to walk the path you and many others have laid for us in our quest for Kujichagalia!

Jesse Adams

March 9, 2006

Respected musician, teacher and true friend, we will miss you. You made a difference!

Alicia Fairweather

March 8, 2006

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My prayers are with you.

Natasha Brown

March 8, 2006

Barnett was a wonderful, kind and loving man. He embraced our family as if we were his own. He will truly be missed and most importantly, remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with the Williams.

The Brown Family

Marlene Green

March 8, 2006

My deepest sympathy goes out to you and the family. May God Bless you.



George & Ophelia Forrest

Rooosevelt & Marlene Green

Jacqueline Bryant

March 8, 2006

Barnett has truely touched my life in many ways. I've learned so much from him. He is loved by all. Our prayers are with Barnett, Monique & Family.

Diamond Jem Miller

March 8, 2006

We will miss Barnett's indomitable spirit, his genius,and companionship.



I have known Barnett since I came to law school in '66 and his brother-in-law for 20 of those years. He was a realist and and honest to me about his beliefs and opinions. He was always willing to share his gifts with young people, many of them disadvantaged. Rest in peace B. Eddie Williams, till we meet again.

Evelyn Gardiner-Jahi

March 8, 2006

Dear Barnette and family, man's extremety is God's opportunity to demonstrate His love.Trust Him even though you cannot trace Him. We are praying for you, Evelyn.

Mary Ann Guerra

March 8, 2006

My thoughts and prayers are with you. I am so sorry for your loss.

George Sitgraves

March 8, 2006

My condolences to the family. The influence spread through Barnett's music, teaching, friendship, and approach to life will by remembered by all of us fortunate enough to know him.

Charles & Helen Forrest

March 8, 2006

We are prayfully thinking of you at this time. May the memories of your loved one help to heal the sorrow that you feel.

Akiba Robinson

March 8, 2006

My prayers and condolences go out to the entire family.

Shay Brown

March 8, 2006

Monique

So sorry for your loss

Let me know if there is anything I can do.

maria crump

March 8, 2006

Mr. Barnett is a very talented man. I have attended numerous workshops inwhich he lead and I have learned so much from him. Mr. Barnett was so full of life and could play the drums so well. To the family, I express my deepest condolences.



Thank you,

Maria Crump, SACC staff member

Lurma Rackley

March 8, 2006

Barnett's extraordinary talent and smiles graced us all. I hope sweet memories of him will ease the sorrow of families and loved ones.

Lurma

Wanda Brown

March 8, 2006

Barnett, Monique and Family:

May God's Grace and Mercy give you strength to know and understand that: "Joy comes in the morning, if you can make through the night"

Sisterly, Wanda B.

kevin lambert

March 8, 2006

Barnett, you helped to keep music to live.



Kevin

Lydia Smallwood-Sutton

March 8, 2006

As a child I remember Barnett and my dad (George Smallwood) getting together for music sessions that were out of this world! Barnett was awesome on the conga drums.



I am sadden by this loss and send my prayers to the family. May God give you strength during this time.



Peace & Blessing.

Betty & Bobby Mason

March 8, 2006

So sorry to hear about Barnett's passing, he was a wonderful person and will be surely missed. Our prayers go out to the family.

LaKeisha Durant-Carr

March 8, 2006

My prayers of peace and comfort are with you and Family during this your time of bereavement.



Nicki & Steven

Patrick Weekes

March 8, 2006

I was glad to have shared time with Mr. Bee. on this Earth. He has touched my life in many ways. Thank you all for sharing your Father, your Brother your Partner your freind with me. Love Patrick

Karen Riley

March 8, 2006

To The Family,



My sincere and deepest heartfelt condolences to the family of Barnett.



He was truly, and I mean truly an inspiration to me. I worked with Barnett (SACC) for a number of years and I was so much impressed with his talents.



I pray peace and love over your hearts at this time of your breavement.

Michael Wall

March 8, 2006

"AMAZING GRACE HOW SWEET THE SOUND THAT SAVED A WRETCH LIKE ME, I ONCE WAS LOSS, NOW I AM FOUND, WAS BLIND BUT NOW I SEE..." I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR OF THE PASSING OF MR. WILLIAMS, I MET HIM ON DIFFERENT TRAININGS WITH SACC, AND HE DID HAVE A LASTING IMPRESSION ON MY LIFE... I FELT HE HAD A VERY COOL SPIRIT, AND A TRUE CHILD OF GOD WITH HIS GIFT OF MUSIC... MAY HE BE AN ANGEL WITH SONG AND A LIGHT TO THOSE HE TOUCHED... GOD BE WITH HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS. OUR LOSS IS HEAVEN'S GAIN...



WITH DEEPEST SYMPATHY,

MICHAEL WALL, SCHOOL AGE CHILD CARE, FAIRFAX COUNTY.

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How to support Barnett's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

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Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Ways to honor Barnett Williams's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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