Obituary of Clarice Sylvia Barnes

On August 29, 2024, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, called Deaconess Clarice Sylvia Barnes to her eternal home. Clarice, affectionately known by her family as Maxine or “Nurse,” was born on October 17, 1946, in Clarendon, Jamaica, to Naomi and Septimus Bartley. She was a twin and the fourth of sixteen children.

Clarice later migrated to Canada, where she became a Personal Support Worker (PSW), dedicating herself to caring for the elderly. She then transitioned into a role as a school bus driver, where she was cherished by countless families for the kindness and compassion she showed toward the children in her care.

Although health issues eventually forced Clarice to retire from driving, she embraced her true calling to serve the Lord. She found her purpose in ministry, dedicating her life to evangelism and selfless service. She exemplified hospitality and kindness to everyone she encountered. On March 5^th, 2023, Clarice was ordained as a Deaconess, a significant milestone in her spiritual journey. As a Deaconess at Restoration Christian Ministries (RCM), she worked diligently, cleaning the church, caring for her pastor, serving as the main contact for new converts, and leading the prayer team. She was a no-nonsense woman when it came to the Lord's work, serving as the spiritual mother and mentor to many.

Sister Barnes was a selfless, loving woman, always ready with a smile that could light up any room. She was blessed with a talent for sewing and cooking, often sharing her gifts with her community. Although she had no biological children, Clarice treated her nieces, nephews, and countless others as her own. She was a mother and grandmother figure to many, a matriarch who stood unwavering in her faith and trust in God’s promises.

Despite facing numerous health challenges, Clarice never complained. Instead, she constantly praised the Lord, her faith unshaken by her struggles. She was a prayer warrior, touching the lives of many by visiting churches, participating in prayer lines, and attending various church events. Her faith was likened to that of Job—unwavering, inspiring, and admired by all. Clarice was the embodiment of what it means to serve the Lord, and her dedication to God was admired by everyone around her.

Clarice is survived by her brothers Anthony and Robert Bartley, sisters Paulette Bartley and Vivia Green, numerous nieces and nephews, and her beloved church family led by Pastor Noel Richards and First Lady Dorett Richards. She was dearly loved and will be deeply missed.