Mary Elizabeth Barnes, a resident of Heritage Green and formerly of Brocton, passed away quietly at the age of 86 on Thursday, February 19, 2026, following a lengthy illness. Her life was a quiet testament to love, expressed through care, generosity, and an open heart that embraced family, friends, neighbors, and the animals she so affectionately loved and fiercely protected.
Mary was born on September 28, 1939 in Westfield to LaVerne Houseman and Audrey (Patchen) Houseman. She attended Sherman Central School and, after marrying, moved to Brocton to raise her family.
Mary was a devoted and deeply involved mother to her four children: Sydney (Kristin) Barnes of Athens, AL, Wayde (Iris) Barnes of Glasgow, KY, Cindy Denmead of Fredonia and Colleen (Dale) Markham of Brocton. She was lovingly known as Mom, Grandma, Memaw, Great-Grandma, or simply "GG," all titles she cherished with pride and joy. She was blessed with 16 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews, all of whom she adored.
Mary was actively involved in every area of her children's lives, serving as a Cub Scouts, Webelos and Girl Scouts leader. She helped with football camps, supported Brocton Little League, and was an active member of the Brocton Booster Club. She was always willing to help care for her neighbor's children whenever needed.
Many years ago, Mary shared her faith and kindness as a Sunday School teacher at the Brocton Methodist Church. She was also previously a lifetime member of the John W. Dill American Legion, the Conservation and Beaver clubs.
Born and raised on a farm, she was a lifelong animal lover and advocate. Mary had an extraordinary compassion for all creatures. She nursed baby bunnies she found with an eye dropper, rescued and fed stray cats, and ensured they were all spayed or neutered. Once, she found an abandoned baby squirrel and nursed it to health.
She had a great passion for music, riding on the motorcycle and spending time with family and friends. She was an exceptional cook, baker and seamstress. She helped with uniforms when her daughters were part of the Westerners and also made clothing for her children.
She worked alongside her former husband in their family business. She was an Avon lady and was employed at Brocton Central School as a bus driver for 20 years, a job that she truly loved. She also worked in the school cafeteria and front office, forming lasting connections with students, their families, and coworkers. She always had a friendly smile.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her younger sisters, Jenneane Poledna and Margaret "Peggy" Toy; younger brother, James Houseman; brothers-in-law, John Barnes, Jefferson Barnes and Thomas Toy; and a daughter-in-law, Suzanne Barnes.
Mary’s warmth, humor, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her life was a testament to compassion, selflessness, and unconditional love, leaving a legacy that will live on through the countless lives she touched.
A celebration of Mary's life and memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 2 at 11:00 AM at Portland Evergreen Cemetery. Family and friends are welcome to attend the Celebration of Life. A private family gathering will take place following the memorial service.
In lieu of flowers, Mary would rather send a memorial contribution to your local Humane Society, in honor of her lifelong love and advocacy for animals.
She loved fiercely, gave endlessly, and asked for little in return. Those who knew Mom are invited to remember her by sharing kindness and caring for one another, just as she always did. Mom, your love was our home and it will guide us always.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Morse Funeral Home, 19 East Main Street in Brocton.
