Ms. Julie Ester Barnes-Stephens was born to the union of the late Walter Barnes Sr. and Annie Bell Barnes, on December 11, 1951 in Augusta, Arkansas.

Julie accepted Christ at an early age. Julie was the 12th child out of 15 siblings. Five have Preceded her in death; Cleathora Price, Alfred Jessie Barnes Sr., Edmond Barnes, Walter Barnes Jr.

Julie received her primary education at Robinson Elementary School and graduated from Harrison High School in 1969, relocating to Cleveland, OH after graduation. Julie continued her education in Ohio obtaining an associate’s degree from Cuyahoga Community College in March 1989 as well as a Business Certificate for Data Entry.

Julie worked as a Customer Service Representative at BP Oil Company, The Rose Institute as a Resident Assistant and West Side Ecumenical Ministry (WSEM) with Youth Outreach. She is a member of Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist church under the Leadership of Pastor Larry L. Harris. She was in regular attendance for Bible Study Sunday mornings and a part of the Bereavement Committee until her own health concerns.

Julie was married to the late Curtis Lamar Stephens. Julie was very giving and willing to help family and friends in any way she could. Rather it was opening her home for those in need, cooking a meal to feed whoever needed to be nourished. And she always lifted everyone in prayer while doing it. She was a Care Giver for many family members (her Mother called her “Nurse Girl”).

Julie leaves 3 children to cherish her memories; Tina L. Barnes, Adrick Chamon Barnes (Michelle), and Tanisha Joy Barnes all of Ohio, 5 grandchildren Ja’Lisa Marshae A., Ja’Von A., Mikyle Nehemiah Hudson, Kalyn Alexandria Michelle Barnes, Shalyn Foster, all of Ohio. Jasmine and Jamond T. of Maryland, 2 great-grandchildren Ja’Lia Brielle Abercrombie and Nasir O. Williams all of Ohio. 6 sisters Dorothy Taylor of Blytheville, AR, Bobbie Robinson (George) of Panama City, FL., Tina Washington of Cleveland, OH., Annie Johnson of Blytheville AR., Ruth Mathis of Blytheville AR., and Delois Guy (Yves) of Lawrenceville, GA. 3 Brothers Andrew Barnes (Geri) of Cleveland OH. Joe Barnes (Ruth) of Las Vegas NV., Rufus Barnes (Verbia) of Columbia, SC. And a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.