Carole T. Barnes

Carole “K-Ree” Travina Barnes, a powerful woman of God and radiant light to all who knew her, was called home to glory on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 3:40 p.m., surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on April 22, 1939, in New York City, to William and Ethel Pendleton. From her earliest days, Carole’s life reflected grace, strength, and a deep love for God. She graduated from high school in New York and began her professional journey with as a telephone operator for New York “Ma” Bell telephone company in the late 1950s—where her diligence and excellence shone brightly.

In 1960, she united in holy matrimony with Willie Barnes, and together they traveled to Lyon, France, during his military service. From their loving union came three precious children—Dawn Marie, Brigette Chantel, and David Brian—who would become the heart of her earthly ministry.

Carole faithfully served more than 30 years with Indiana Bell (later AT&T) before retiring, only to continue blessing others through her work with Signature Group, YMCA Urban Youth Services, and the South Bend Community School Corporation. Every place her feet touched became a field of service and love.

More than her career, it was her calling that defined her life. Carole was a devoted member and minister of Faith Apostolic Church, Mountain Top Faith, and New Life Ministries. She carried the Word of God wherever she went—evangelizing souls in her community and across the nation. Her voice was gentle yet mighty, her faith steadfast, and her heart ever turned toward Heaven.

Carole loved the Lord with all her heart, mind, soul, and strength. She lived what she believed, teaching her children to walk by faith, not by sight. Her home was filled with prayer, laughter, and the melody of God’s presence.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory:

her children Dawn (Jerome) Jones, Brigette Chantel Barnes, and David (Sharlynn) Barnes;

five loving sisters, Elizabeth (Arthur) Cook, Lorraine Pearson, Sandra (John) Rawlings, Janet Mitchell, and Marian (Kevin) Pearson;

16 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and spiritual sons and daughters who were touched by her love.

She was preceded in death by her parents William and Ethel Pendleton, her brothers David and Willie Pendleton, sisters Gladys Harmon and Kathrine Pendleton, nephews Gary and Glenn Harmon, and niece Desiree Tucker.

Carole’s life was a song of worship—each verse filled with service, each chorus echoing faith. Now she rests in the eternal arms of the Savior she adored. Her earthly labor is complete, but her legacy of love, strength, and devotion will sing on through the generations.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”

— Matthew 25:23

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