Bettye Barnes

Bettye Thomas Barnes passed away peacefully on January 2, 2023 in the loving care of her daughter, whom she loved deeply. She displayed great strength and grace until her last breath.

Bettye Thomas Barnes was born January 3, 1932 in Gladewater, Tx to Jessie Thomas and Effie Williams Thomas. She moved to Hobbs as a young child with her family.

Bettye married Calvin Barnes on December 19, 1955. Together they had one child, Ramona Haynes. She was a wonderful mother and wife, and adored her family.

Bettye was a strong, caring, loving Christian woman, who served the Lord at First United Methodist Church. For 40 years, Bettye was a dedicated school teacher working in Carlsbad, NM for 3 years, Lamesa, Tx for 2 years and Hobbs, NM for 35 years. She loved spending time with her family. Facetiming her great-grandson, Kyson was a favorite pastime. She also loved crocheting. She made many afghans for family and friends. Bettye was an avid Solitaire player.

Bettye attended Dunbar High School in Mineral Wells, Tx and graduated in 1950. She continued her education at Bishop College in Marshall, Tx. Bettye also attended New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, NM, graduating in 1954 with a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree. Bettye attended Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, NM where she attained her Master’s of Education. She started her career as an educator in 1955 and continued serving in education as a master teacher until she retired in 1999.

Bettye is survived by her daughter Ramona Haynes of Hobbs, NM, granddaughter Krystle Haynes (Arron Trammell) of Dallas,Tx, grandson Jonathan Haynes of Hobbs, NM, Emilyn Haynes of Pecos, Tx, great-grandson Kyson Trammell of Dallas, Tx, sister Lemma White of Hobbs, NM, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Bettye is preceded in death by her parents Jessie Thomas, Effie Williams Thomas, husband Calvin Barnes, sister, Helen Harris, brother Joe E. Brown, brother Leonard Brown, Emmanuel Thomas, brother Jessie Thomas Jr., and brother Clyde Thomas.