Diane F. Barnes, age 81, joined her husband in heaven on Friday, December 15, 2023, at her Ponchatoula residence, surrounded by her loving family. Originally from Maurepas, she grew up picking strawberries before school. She enjoyed playing basketball for Maurepas High. Diane was a woman who was strong in her Catholic faith, with a natural gift for nurturing people and animals. Diane enjoyed giving to many different charities, from ASPCA to Catholic organizations to sponsoring children across the world. She had a tender heart and would take in all the stray animals that wandered her way. She also enjoyed cooking big family meals, sewing, and gardening. Being of Cajun descent and of a country upbringing, family favorite meals included chicken and andouille gumbo, potato salad, and mustard greens. Diane was also a member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary for many years. She was most proud of her family and loved to talk to anyone about them. Diane enjoyed vacations to the mountains, camping, and visiting historical sites. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend to all who knew her. She is already deeply missed.
She leaves behind her children, Cheri Barnes Basford (Rob) and Christopher 'Brandon' Barnes (Jennifer); grandchildren, Aubree and Brooks; sister-in-law, Marsha Barnes; best friend, Susan Smith; dozens of cousins, as well as her four kitty cats.
Preceding her in death were her husband who couldn't wait any longer for her to arrive in heaven, Sidney Barnes; precious granddaughters, Addisyn and Brynlee; parents, Joseph Fontenot and Verlie Eliser Fontenot; in-laws, Birley Barnes and Irene Jones Barnes; brother-in-law, Frank 'Glen' Barnes; numerous cousins, aunts and uncles; as well as several cats and dogs she took in over the years.