April 7, 1952 ~ April 5, 2021
Marsha Dianne Barnes was born on April 7, 1952 in Emporia, Kansas to Floyd and Katherine Brockleman. She passed away peacefully with her children by her side on April 5, 2021 at the age of 68 in Caldwell, Kansas. Marsha attended school in both Wichita and Emporia. Shortly after graduating from Emporia High School, Marsha married Elbert Barnes. They established the family farm south of Corbin, Kansas. Marsha gained more than a husband, as she also gained five little brothers. She quickly established a reputation for her cooking. Harvest was a family affair, with Marsha providing delicious meals for everyone helping in the fields.
Elbert and Marsha raised two children, Dana and David, on their farm in Corbin. As the children grew up, Marsha decided to join the workforce. She enjoyed working as a secretary in the Caldwell Schools, performing clerical duties at Herb Lungren Chevrolet, a sales associate at Wal-Mart pharmacy, and a secretary at the Sumner County Extension Agency. She finally found a place to call home at KanOkla. She started her career there as a front desk clerk and advanced to being a Tech Store Supervisor. After 22 dedicated years of hard work and friendships made, she retired in 2018.
Marsha was involved in many activities in the Caldwell and Corbin communities where she made many friends that became family. She was a member of the Corbin United Methodist Church, participating in UMW, teaching both vacation bible school and Sunday School and of course cooking for the annual turkey supper. Marsha was invited to join the ladies of Epsilon Sigma Alpha, Delta Chi chapter, where she found her second family. She held many positions within the chapter including President, Vice-President, and secretary. She served on the district level as chair, co-chair, and auditor. She continued to support Epsilon Sigma Alpha on the state level through many positions, proudly serving as chaplain and state president. She felt the calling to serve on the international level as the administrative assistant to the IC president. Marsha’s involvement with ESA helped her passion for helping others shine. She was active with the St. Jude Math-a-Thon, and one of her favorite philanthropic activities was sponsoring fun activities for the children of Heartspring. Marsha’s ESA sisters led her on some wild adventures, and were always her rock during difficult times, as she was to others.
Marsha became “Gram” when her granddaughters Abigail and Megan were born. She loved keeping up with their antics and activities.
Marsha bravely faced several health issues throughout her years, always coming out on top. After defeating cancer once, she lost the battle as the cancer aggressively returned.
Marsha was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Katherine Brockleman, and her husband, Elbert Barnes. She is survived by her daughter, Dana Neal (Lance) of Kansas City, KS, son, David Barnes (Kate) of Caldwell, KS, and granddaughters, Abigail and Megan Neal. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 10, 2021 at Corzine Cemetery, Corbin, Kansas.
Memorials may be made to Sumer County Hospital District #1 or to Heartspring School, 8700 East 29th St N, Wichita, KS 67226, and sent in care of the mortuary.
Condolences
Dear Dana & David & family:
Brenda Schaffer - 04/07/2021
Your mom was always so kind, encouraging and supportive. She was a great leader and a person I always looked up to. I will miss seeing her at our ESA events. Hold her memories close. My thoughts & prayers are with all of you. Brenda
David and Dana, I am so very
Julie Wolf - 04/07/2021new
David and Dana, I am so very sorry for your loss. She was an amazing person that loved family more than anything, always "bragging" on you all. She will be missed! Much comfort to you both.
Marsha came into my life a
Patricia Gale - 04/07/2021
Marsha came into my life a little over ten years ago and I was truly blessed for it. She was a supportive and loving friend. I will miss her dearly Thoughts and prayers to her family
Dana and David,
Judy Ahrens - 04/08/2021
Your mom will be missed by so many. I remember meeting her at the old Institute of Logopedics in Wichita, now known as Heartspring. We had lots of fun participating in ESA activities. My husband, Jim, and I stayed at your mom's home several years ago when we held a fundraising event for Delta Chi. She said "there aren't too many hotel choices" in Caldwell! Please hold dear all of the memories made. Peace to both of you and your family. Judy Ahrens, Manhattan, KS.
Marsha was such a neat lady,
Hannah Gerberding - 04/08/2021
Marsha was such a neat lady, sending my thoughts and prayers to your family! She will be missed by lots.
Dana & David
Duane & Marcia ... - 04/08/2021
I'm sorry to hear of Marsha's passing she was such a great lady.
Dana, David and Family,
Doug and Kristi... - 04/09/2021
Dana, David and Family, So sorry for the loss of Marsha. We're thinking of you all during this time and hoping you find peace in the good memories you share. Love you.
Dana and David
Janet Holler - 04/09/2021
I remember, as a child, walking up to your house and really enjoyed spending time with your family. I remember our moms taking us to do things when we were children. I am so sorry for your loss. Lots of love and prayers.
David, Dana, and family,
Kim Kummer - 04/10/2021
I am so sorry for your loss. Your mom and I shared many laughs in our ESA journey as KS State Presidents. We traveled together, made plans, shared our fears, and encouraged each other. She had a way of supporting everyone around her. I stayed with her in Caldwell and she stayed with me in Great Bend. Such great times! I will cherish the memories. She was so proud of both of you. She delighted in Abigail and Megan. Praying for your comfort and peace! Kim Kummer, Great Bend, Ks
