Helen Edith (Scales) Barnett

Helen Barnett Obituary Helen Edith Barnett, a survivor born amidst the Great Depression on June 5, 1932, in Ridgeway, Virginia, gracefully concluded her earthly journey on February 5, 2024, in Cleveland, Ohio. Her life, spanning over 91 incredible years, was a testament to strength, resilience, and unwavering faith. A witness to the ups and downs of history, Helen's journey intertwined with pivotal moments that shaped the fabric of American society. From the passing of the 1957 Civil Rights Act to the profound impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legendary "I Have a Dream" speech in 1963, she remained a steadfast guardian of progress. Amidst the turmoil of the Hough riots in July of 1966 and the historic milestone of Dr. King's birthday becoming a federal holiday in November of 1983, Helen's steadfastness was equally evident in the strength and unity she fostered within her family. When history was made once more with the inauguration of Barack Obama as the first black president of the United States in 2008, she rejoiced in the realization of a dream decades in the making. Helen's soul found comfort in the rhythms of gospel music from a young age, when she first lent her voice to the choir, filling the sanctuaries with melodies that uplifted spirits and touched hearts. Whether harmonizing hymns on a Sunday morning or serenading loved ones with the soulful strains of blues and soul, her passion for music was a beacon of joy that illuminated every gathering. Helen's early involvement in the choir likely contributed to the rich musical talent that exists in her family, evident in the beautiful voices that echoed through generations. Beyond her love for music, Helen's greatest legacy was her devotion to family. As a loving mother, grandmother, and grandmama, she cultivated a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unconditional love. Her kitchen was not only a place of culinary delights but also a stage where she performed her favorite tunes. There was often the tantalizing aroma of barbecue in the air as Helen and her daughters tended to the grill. Meanwhile, the kids immersed themselves in the world of Nintendo, laughter ringing out in harmony as the music filled the air. The Barnetts were pioneers in family entertainment, being among the first to discover the joy of karaoke. It became a tradition to transform Grandma's house into a concert hall, where we took turns belting out our favorite tunes, creating unforgettable moments of joy and togetherness that remain etched in our hearts forever. Helen is preceded in death by her beloved parents, George and Edith Scales, her brothers and sisters, Lafontain Scales, Lucille Manns, Sylvia Smith, Earlene Broadnax, and Margaret Porter, and her cherished daughters, Helen Denise and Joyce. She is survived by her adoring daughters, Norma Jean, Brenda, and Harriett, and a legacy of love carried forth by her grandchildren: Bradley, Christina, Geraldine, Christopher, Clifford, Grettia, Lenora, Brian, and Brad, along with a host of great-grandchildren whose lives she touched with her boundless love. As we bid farewell to a remarkable woman whose spirit will forever resonate in our hearts, let us take solace in the knowledge that Helen Edith Barnett's legacy of love, resilience, and faith will endure for generations to come. Helen, you have forever changed our world for the better. Rest in eternal peace to our Mom, our Grandma, our Grandmama, Ms. Barnett. Your presence brought light and love into our lives, and your absence leaves a void that can never be filled. You will be deeply missed and fondly remembered; your legacy of love and laughter will live on in our hearts for generations to come. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Helen Edith (Scales) Barnett, please visit our floral store. Read More

Helen Edith (Scales) Barnett

June 5, 1932 - February 5, 2024