Beverly Jean Barnes

With deep sorrow and overwhelming love, we share that Beverly Jean Barnes, 66, of Ocala, FL, went home to be with the Lord on April 22, 2025. A devoted Christian, Beverly loved God fiercely, and we take comfort in knowing that she is now at peace in His presence—joyfully reunited with her baby girl, Nichole Ellen Barnes, whom she had longed to see again. Born in Bucyrus, Ohio, on April 14, 1959, Beverly grew up in Lake Worth, FL, where she developed her lifelong love for the beach. She later spent over 30 years in Webster, FL, raising her family, before making Ocala her home for the last 12 years. Beverly was a strong, witty, and fiercely loving woman. She began her professional life as a hair stylist but transitioned into waitressing before starting a long and successful career at the Florida Department of Transportation (DOT). She worked her way up from inspector to respected Supervisor, becoming a vital resource to her team, the Florida Highway Patrol, and her leadership. Beverly not only built a reputation as a hard worker and problem solver, but she also built lasting friendships with her beloved DOT family. She was married for more than 35 years to her late husband, Curtis Barnes, and together they shared a life full of laughter, love, and enduring commitment. Beverly was a devoted mother to her daughter Teresa Lynn Cook, and a proud “Grammy” to her grandcats—and soon, her first granddaughter, Emmalynn Nichole, due this August. Though she didn’t get to meet her in person, Emmalynn was already deeply loved. Beverly had a sharp sense of humor, a generous heart, and an unshakable sense of loyalty. She was a lover of crossword puzzles, singing competitions (especially The Voice—go Blake!), fire and medical dramas, Gator football, Joe Montana (and therefore the 49ers and Chiefs), salty snacks, good drinks, and holiday cheer—especially Christmas. She was a watermelon connoisseur, a top-tier gift giver, and a passionate reader who passed her love of books and travel to her daughter. She is survived by her daughter Teresa Cook (Emerson), her sisters Terry Gold and Cindy Boren, and countless dear friends, colleagues, and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her infant daughter Nichole Ellen Barnes, her husband Curtis Barnes, her siblings Ann Drawdy, Steve Boren, and Jim Boren, and her parents Jean and Art Stuckert. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held Friday, May 9, 2025, at Roberts of Ocala (606 SW 2nd Ave, Ocala, FL 34471). The gathering will begin at 1:00 p.m. with a service to follow at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Beverly’s biggest joy—her upcoming granddaughter—by showering Emmalynn Nichole with love and gifts. Beverly may not be able to spoil her in person, but she’ll live on through every cherished memory and loving gesture. The baby registry can be found at https://my.babylist.com/babygirlcook2025.

Beverly Jean Barnes

April 14, 1959 - April 22, 2025