Willie Barnes

Rev.Willie Lee Barnes 91 passed away on December 6, 2009 at Arbors at Toledo. Born in Greenville, GA to the late Eddie Lee and Mattie Burke Barnes. He transitioned to Toledo in 1936 where he was member of Spring Street Baptist serving as a Deacon from 1936 until he was ordained as a Minister in 1944 under the leadership of Rev. A.D. James. Rev. W.L. Barnes was called by the people of True Vine Missionary Baptist Church to become pastor and leader of the church which lasted for 50 years retiring in 1994. He was a man of true vision always trying to reach and achieve higher goals for himself and the church. He attended Scott High night classes to further his education, he went on to receive his B.T.H. degree from Michigan Theological Seminary in 1953. Rev. W.L. Barnes was instrumental in the growth and expansion of the church and through prayer and determination the congregation was able to build a new church. Pastor Barnes always found time to work for the Lord and within the community. He was a member of the Toledo Baptist Minister’s Conference, board Member of the LaGrange Neighborhood Association, board member of Stickney Neighborhood Council, member of Stickney Area Ministers Conference, President of the B.T.U. Department, Vice Moderator of the Toledo District Association and member of the Lions Club. He was preceded in death by wife of 50 + years Ozie Barnes, daughters, Barbara Winbush, Jeanette Allison, grandchildren, Judy Rice and Larry Minter. He leaves to cherish his memory grandchildren, Brenda Thomas of Stone Mt.GA, Gregory (Regina), Raynard, Gary (Sandy) Minter of Savannah, GA, Mike (Monica) Barlow of Atlanta, GA, cousin, Lucille Simpson of Detroit, MI, devoted friend, Jimmie “J.L”(Jeanette) Stinson and a host of nieces nephews other relatives and friends. Visitation will be3-6p.m. Monday followed by wake service from 6-8p.m. funeral service 11am Tuesday all at True Vine Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Melvin Barnes officiant burial Ottawa Hills Memorial Park. Arrangements entrusted to Dale-Riggs Funeral Home. www.dalefh.com