Thelma Barnes

Thelma Barnes, beloved mother, sister, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026, at the age of 91 after several years of living with Alzheimer’s disease.

Thelma was born on February 14, 1935, in Arnold, Missouri to Thelma Teuteberg and William Noll. Her childhood was marked by profound hardship. At the age of nine, she and her two younger sisters were abandoned by both parents and spent the remainder of their childhood living in various homes. Though these early experiences were difficult, they helped shape the resilience, compassion, and faith that would characterize her life.

On August 27, 1955, she married Harvey Young. They made their home first in St. Louis and later in Florissant, Missouri. They ultimately welcomed six children: Steve, Brad, Rodney, Doug, Ora, and Scott. The family later moved to Williamsburg, Virginia, in June 1967.

One of the greatest sorrows of Thelma’s life came on November 21, 1964, when her son Rodney died in a tragic gun accident. Despite this heartbreaking loss, she continued to move forward with courage and unwavering faith.

In February 1969, Thelma joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her testimony of the gospel became the defining influence of her life. She lovingly raised her family in the faith and was blessed to see her four surviving sons serve full-time missions for the Church. Her own life was likewise dedicated to missionary work, and she later served two full-time missions, one in Washington, D.C., and another in Chicago. Whether speaking with neighbors, friends, or strangers, she sought every opportunity to share her testimony of Jesus Christ.

Following her divorce from Harvey Young in 1984, Thelma continued to build a life centered on faith and service. In June 1990, she moved to Logan, Utah, where she worked in Facilities Management for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In August 2001, she transferred to Round Rock, Texas, continuing her employment with the Church.

On July 1, 2010, she married Dick Barnes. Their time together was brief but meaningful before Dick passed away from cancer in 2011. Later, Thelma moved to San Tan Valley, Arizona, where she spent the remainder of her life.

Thelma will be remembered for her steadfast faith, her perseverance through adversity, and her lifelong commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ. She believed deeply in the Savior and devoted herself to sharing His message whenever and however she could. Her example of faith, service, and determination continues to bless the lives of her family and all who knew her.

She is survived by her children Steve, Brad, Doug, Ora, and Scott, along with her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her son Rodney Young and her husband, Dick Barnes.

Though Alzheimer’s disease gradually took many of her memories, it never diminished the legacy of faith, love, and perseverance she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched.

A viewing will be held at 9:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 32584 North Gary Road, San Tan Valley, Arizona.