February 14, 2025, 90, Winston-Salem —
Bessie McLaurin Barnes, affectionately known as “Bet,” went to be with her Lord and Savior Friday, February 14, 2025.
She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Her legacy of faith, love, service, and hard work will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew her. A woman of unwavering faith and the beloved matriarch of her family, Bessie touched countless lives through her dedication to her loved ones, her community, and her deep commitment to her Christian beliefs.
Bessie was born on June 11, 1934, to the late Christine Monroe (Charmichael) and James McLaurin. She was the youngest of five children: James Hector McLaurin, Clifton McLaurin, Margaret McLaurin Uzzell, and Maggie McLaurin Kornegay, all of whom preceded her in death.
Raised in Wayne County, North Carolina, Bessie was educated in the Wayne County Schools and graduated from Central High School in 1952. She went on to attend A&T University, where she continued to cultivate her love of learning. In November 1953, Bessie married the love of her life, Mr. Alton Barnes. Together, they built a beautiful life in Goldsboro, NC, and were blessed with two children, Angela (1954) and Rozell (1955). As a dedicated wife and mother, she raised her children with love, faith, and the value of hard work.
Bessie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Alton Barnes. She leaves behind her cherished children, Angela Moore Reid (James) and Rozell Barnes, both of Winston Salem, NC.
Her legacy of love extends to her grandchildren: Nakela (Geoff), Julius (Nicki), Jaqui (Scoot), Dereka (Marcus), and Bria (Tim). She was affectionately known as “Granma Barnes” by her great-grandchildren: Sydni, Ryan, Myles, John Alton, Bailey, Chason, Chandler, and Grace. Her love and wisdom will forever resonate in their hearts. She is also survived by two dear sisters-in-law, Mary Lee Barnes (Alfred) and Annie McLaurin (Clifton), as well as a divine sister, not of blood but of spirit, Gwen Ellis. Aunt Bet’s love deeply extended to a host of immediate family and special friends via marriage and friendship, all of whom held a special place in her heart.
Bessie was a woman of remarkable ambition and resilience. While raising her children, she initially performed day work before pursuing her passion for nursing. She completed her LPN at Wayne Community College in 1967, launching a distinguished nursing career at O’Berry Center and retiring from Maury Correctional Center, culminating in 30 years of dedicated service to the state of North Carolina. Simultaneously, Bessie pursued her entrepreneurial spirit by attending cosmetology school and opening the New Era Beauty Salon. Even in retirement, her passion for education led her to nearly complete her BSN at Atlantic Christian College before her husband fell ill. Her love for learning and community service was evident in her ventures into real estate, where she took great pride in the upkeep of Central Goldsboro. She was known for her honesty, integrity, and commitment to doing what was right.
Bessie was a woman of unwavering faith and a dedicated member of Woods Chapel Free Will Baptist Church of Goldsboro, NC. Her spiritual journey also led her to frequent many Bible-based churches, reflecting her deep commitment to her Christian beliefs. She encouraged service to the community and found solace in the teachings of the Book of Proverbs.
Her passion for learning, community service, and faith were guiding lights throughout her life, inspiring everyone she encountered. She will be remembered for her warm smile, wisdom, and deep love for her family, church, and community. She enjoyed playing basketball, watching professional football, and was known for her passion for continued education.
Her absence leaves a void that will never be filled, but her legacy of love, service, and faith will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and perseverance. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. Her life was a testament to her favorite values: faith, love, hard work, and the pursuit of knowledge. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Homegoing celebration will be held Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro. Interment will follow at Barnes Family Cemetery in Goldsboro. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10:00 until 10:45 a.m. at the funeral home.
Professional services entrusted to the care of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.
