Rosetta (Walker) Barnes

Rosetta Barnes, 86, passed and went home at 4:17a.m. on October 14, 2018 in Portland, Oregon. She was born in Fayette, Alabama on March 14, 1932. She was the first child of Willie Mae Criss (Mother) and Samuel Walker Sr. (Father). She met and married the light of her life Rufus Earl Barnes in 1974.

Rosetta was a long-time resident of Portland, Oregon having moved to Portland from St. Louis as a nursing assistant at the Multnomah County Hospital and worked there for several years before moving on to Bess Kaiser Hospital and retiring as the unit secretary for 26 years.

She was heavily involved with volunteering at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church as a,  Deaconess,  a member on the counting team, Oasis ministry and many other opportunities throughout the church.

Rosetta was an avid reader and would often finish books in one day. Rosetta was a stylish dresser, which was a reflection of her polished look. She also had a huge collection of hats and one was featured in the book Crowned Jewels which was derived from the  play Crowns. Rosetta was a true friend to all who knew her and a great cook. Many times, she would prepare a wonderful, fantastic, out of this world feasts for all to consume. Whether it be a special holiday or just because someone wanted to taste her exceptionally delightful cornbread dressing (Recipe was in Food Day Oregonian). She was known to overcook, so everyone could take home a plate. “Don’t bring a thing but your appetite” she would often say. In her later years she really appreciated music, having played the piano, and watching politics on the television. She was keenly aware of
current events.

Preceding Rosetta in death are husband, Rufus Earl Barnes; mother, Willie Mae Criss; father, Samuel Walker Sr.; brothers, Samuel Walker Jr., and Excell Walker.

She leaves behind her devoted and loved children, Calvin Walker (Cheryl), Sharon Walker-McFarlane (Probyn),Vanessa Johnson-Obioha (Rommy) and Gari Lynn Barnes-Brewer (Paul); grandchildren, Xavier Lucus, Christine Jones, David Jones and Alonzo Wilson; the dear and very loved Ola Mae and the Moffett family, Dr. Arnetta Crosby family, Jeanine Wiggins, Jessie and Shirley Rogers, Mattie Harris and family and a host of extended family and friends.

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