Winnie Rachel Barbee Mayes left this earth peacefully and was embraced in the arms of the Lord on January 23, 2015, at the home of her daughter. She was surrounded by the love of her family during her passing and although her absence leaves a void in everyone that knew her, her gentle and kind spirit will survive in our hearts and the memories she left behind will never be forgotten.
Winnie was born May 4th, 1923 in Gunter, Texas to Luther and Winnie (Underwood) Barbee and had 3 sisters and 4 brothers. She was married to the love of her life, the late Erna Mayes for 58 years and they were blessed with 3 children Carolyn Bates, Gordon Mayes and Ronald Howard Mayes. Mrs. Mayes is survived by grandchildren Priscilla Fuselier Arnold, Crystal Fuselier, Lorna Mayes Nipp,and Tiffany Bates. Winnie had 6 great grandkids, Preston Fuselier, Kayton Arnold, Kaycee Arnold, Barrett Wynn, and Ronnie and Rachel Murphy. She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, son, granddaughter Crystal Danta Mayes, and her loving husband Erna Mayes.
Mrs. Mayes was a devout member of West Sherman Baptist and her relationship with God was of great importance and attended services weekly. She stayed active and enjoyed spending time with grandkids, camping, traveling, shopping with her daughter and her favorite activity was mowing her farm.
Winnie was an inspiration to all around her and left an impression on everyone she met. There is no greater achievement than having secured the love and respect of one's family and friends and that's exactly what she accomplished during her 91 years on earth. She will be missed in the hearts of her children, friends, and those that called her "nanny". IT was truly a privilege to have been loved by her and await the day we see you again.
Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, Jan. 27, at Waldo Funeral Home chapel with Rev. Danny Wood officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarlawn Memorial Park with Jerry Bates, Preston Fuselier, Billy Joe Williams, Howard Horton, Kenny Conyers, and John Arnold serving as pallbearers.
Family night will be held from 6-8 PM on Monday, Jan. 26, at Waldo Funeral Home.
Special thanks to Heart to Heart, Home Hospice, Patients Best Choice, and her devoted caregiver, daughter and best friend Carolyn Bates.
An online register may be signed at www.waldofuneralhome.com.
Services are under the direction of Waldo Funeral Home.