Obituary

Miss Edna Louise Barnes, beloved daughter, sister, and friend, was born on April 7, 1948, to the late Andrew Jackson Barnes, Sr., and the late Etta Earl Boone Barnes. She peacefully departed this life on February 7, 2026 at her home in Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania, leaving behind a legacy of service, love, and faith.

Edna's early years were marked by a joyful spirit and a commitment to her family, church, and community. Edna was an active and dedicated member of First Baptist Church in Conway, North Carolina. She joyfully sang in the choir and faithfully served as Sunday School Church Secretary, touching the lives of many through her generosity and commitment. She developed a strong work ethic by her willingness to work on her grandparents' farm and as a cashier at the neighborhood dry cleaners.

Edna graduated as Valedictorian from Willis Hare High School in Pendleton, North Carolina, in 1966, where she was a proud member of both the science and chorus clubs. She continued her academic journey at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1970. She furthered her studies at Hahnemann Medical College and Hospital in Philadelphia, deepening her expertise in the field of biology. She received a Master of Arts in Education from Arcadia University. Answering the call to serve her country, Edna enlisted in the United States Army Reserve, where she served with honor and distinction.

Edna is remembered as an avid educator, classroom teacher, colleague, and school administrator. Her passion for education lead her to teach at Overbook High School and Olney High School. She served as Assistant Principal of William Penn High School. She was a participant in the foreign student exchange program and was the host for two students from France. In July 2005 she was appointed the Director of Accelerated Learning for the School District of Philadelphia. Edna was also a faculty member at Temple University. Given her desire to serve her community, she was elected President of the Stotesbury Community Association where she served with purpose and commitment.

Edna was raised in a loving and supportive family environment, where she cultivated lifelong values of integrity, generosity, and resilience. She leaves to cherish her precious memories two siblings – Jennifer Barnes of Chesapeake, Virginia and Andrew Barnes of Lewes, Delaware. Her nephew and nieces: Andrew Jermaine Barnes, Donyetta Ilona Barnes, and Anita Lashay Barnes. Two great nieces: Jamari Anderson-Barnes and A'Nila Barnes. Two great nephews: Tyler Andrew Barnes and Andrew Joseph Barnes. She was preceded in death by her brother Andrew Jackson Barnes, Jr. and her sister Elsie Marie Barnes. She also leaves to cherish her memories, Gwendolyn Barnes, the wife of her deceased brother, Andrew Jr., along with a loving circle of relatives, colleagues, and friends.

Calling hours will be Saturday, March 14 from at Batchelor Brothers & Jones Funeral Services, 7112 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA.

A Memorial Service to Celebrate her life will be held 2:00 pm on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Batchelor Brothers & Jones Funeral Services, 7112 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA with officiating. Burial will be in Ivy Hill Cemetery, Philadelphia on Thursday, February 19 at .