Betty Sue Barnes

Betty Sue Rowles Barnes, 93, of Blackstone, Virginia, passed away on May 1, 2026. Born on January 29, 1933, to the late Charles Thomas and Ruby Dudley Rowles.  Betty Sue lived a life rooted in faith, family, and dedicated service to her community.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 48 years, William Thomas Barnes, III, and her daughter, Mary Blackwell Barnes. She is survived by her three daughters, Susan Nash (Eddie), Anne VanWart (Roger), and Martha Reed (David); five grandchildren, Kate Nash Roberts (Mike), Sarah Nash, Kendall VanWart, Margaret Reed Stiefel (Nick), and Mary Preston Reed; and three great-grandchildren, Kara, Hallie, and Mackenzie Roberts. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Dr. Letcher B. Barnes, and her niece, Bettie Barnes Paine (Bill).

A graduate of Randolph-Macon Woman's College, Betty Sue was a devoted and active member of Crenshaw United Methodist Church, where she began her career as the Director of Christian Education. Her lifelong commitment to education continued through her work at Blackstone Day School, Kenston Forest School, and the Louis Spencer Epes Library. She eventually retired from Cokesbury Bookstore. Betty Sue will be remembered for her deep faith, her dedication to nurturing others, and the enduring love she shared with her family.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Heritage Hall Nursing Home in Blackstone for the care and kindness shown to Mom over the last 3 years. A special thank you to Cynthia Taylor, NP, for her unwavering compassion and excellent care.
 

A memorial service will be held at Crenshaw United Methodist Church, Blackstone on Thursday, May 7 at 2:00 p.m.  Visitation and reception will follow the service in the church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to Crenshaw United Methodist Church, 200 Church Street, Blackstone, VA 23824, or to HELP (Helping Every Life Prosper), P.O. Box 245, Blackstone, VA 23824.

Arrangements by Joseph McMillian Funeral Home of Blackstone.  www.mcmillianfuneralhome.com

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