Joan Mary Barnes

joan barnes
Joan Mary Barnes, 88 of Vienna, Virginia, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2023, at her home. Everett, her husband of 67 years, was by her side, along with all her children.

Joan was born and raised in Washington, DC, attended Notre Dame Academy, and went on to a career at the CIA where she met her husband. Everett and Joan were married on June 11, 1955, and settled in Vienna, VA, to raise their family of 5 children. Joan later received her degree in computer science.

Joan was a lifelong fan of the Washington football and Senators baseball teams. She was active in her community and church, teaching catechism for many years. Joan was an avid reader and puzzler – something the family enjoyed together, especially in recent years.

Over the years, Joan and Everett adopted rescue dogs and cats who gave them great joy and were good company. They adored their grandchildren and delighted in watching them grow and play ball. They also enjoyed their weekends at the cabin they built in West Virginia.

Joan and Everett were devoted to each other and best friends. Joan was an encouraging, insightful, and fun mother, and we all are thankful for the strength of our family.

Joan is survived by her husband Everett Van Slyck Barnes, Sr., and children Barbara Mary Barnes; Everett Van Slyck Barnes, Jr. (Deborah Lamar Barnes); Timothy David Barnes (Melany Beth Barnes); Jeannine Carol Barnes; and Diane Barnes Case. Joan also has 6 beloved grandchildren: William Daniel Case, Mary Ella Barnes, Samuel Everett Case, Megan Alison Barnes, Bradley David Barnes, and Christina Lucia Barnes. Joan was predeceased by her brother Thomas Francis McPhaul (Mary Louise McPhaul).

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Rappahannock Animal Rescue League (RAWL).

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  1. Mrs. Barnes was a lovely woman and I am so very sorry to hear this news. My thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Barnes and his family as they maneuver forward with this new normal. Cherish the memories and know she will always be with you in spirit.
    Mary (and Nick) Milton

  2. My memories of Mrs. Barnes go back to my childhood. I spent so much time with Jeannine at her house, that I called Mrs. Barnes “Mom.” She always made me feel like part of the family. As I grew up and expanded my family with a husband and kids, she always made a point to keep up with how everyone was doing. Some of my most favorite recent times with Mrs. Barnes were all about baseball and football. It was amazing to watch her score a Nats game.

    My heart is heavy with her loss, but my memories of Mrs. Barnes will always be with me. For Mr. Barnes, Jeannine, and her brothers and sisters, please know that Joe and I are here for you. You have our love and support always, and especially now as you move forward through this difficult time.

    With love from us both – Gretchen

  3. To my Mom…
    You taught me early on to “never say never or always.” Having said that, you were always so beautiful, and I will never stop missing you. xoxo

  4. My Grandson and I used to call Mom to settle arguments like whether to eat ice cream before or after a meal. Mom had fun helping us discuss the point. I think Mom favored her Great Grandson but I will remember how nice it was to be able to call her and get some good perspective. We will miss those conversations.

  5. Heartfelt condolences to uncle Everett and family on behalf of the Barnes family. I found a few pictures of our Aunt Joan in more recent family gatherings. She was a very sweet woman ❤️

  6. Joan was our next door neighbor on Stephen Cr for over fifty years. The lovely Barnes children grew up with ours. She was like a second mother to them. Her kids were fantastic playmates to ours and we shared many laughts together at their antics.

    As the years passed we marveled at the changes to the kids, the neighborhood from cows happily muching at the corner field, the Carters sharing delicious offerings from their garden, all the kids enjoying snow sled rides down our shared back yards. Not to mention some of the teen antics..!

    Joan and Everett hosted us and others from “the Circle” at their lovely West Virginia hide a way. Had many a laugh there. Joan and I shared our life of attending all girl Catholic High Schools in D.C. compared to co-ed Fairfax County Schools and the different life styles and clothing styles for our kids.

    Our life is so much richer for having Joan as a neighbor, friend and spare mother to our children. We are fortunate and blessed to have had her in our lives!


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