Opal Mae Barnes

Was born January 4, 1937 in Memphis, TN the daughter of the late Edward and Laura (Osteen) Holmes, was ushered home to be with her Lord on Tuesday, February 20, 2013 at the age of 76. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Robbie A. White and Curtis Holmes. She is survived by her loving children, Evelyn Phenes (John Williamson) of Horseheads, NY; Edward Mochrie (Deb Gibbs) of Fort Edward, NY; James (Tayna) Barnes of Elmira Heights, NY; Raymond Barnes of Elmira, NY; sister, Diane Hughes of Horseheads, NY; brother, Robert Summers of Pine City, NY; along with 14 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, 3 sisters, 2 brothers and several nieces, nephews and her church family. Opal was a faithful member of the Elmira Christian Center. She volunteered for many dedicated years at her church in the Kitchen/Cafe preparing lunches for the student body at Elmira Christian Academy as well as special dinners and other occasions for the church. Opal was a devoted Sunday School teacher in the 2 and 3 year old department for several years being a "mother hen" figure to her little "darlings." Family and friends are invited to gather at the Elmira Christian Center 235 East Miller Street Elmira, NY on Monday, February 25, 2013 from 2:00 to 6:00 PM. Funeral services honoring her life will follow the visitation at 6 PM. Reverend David Cook will celebrate Opal's home going. She will be laid to rest in Maple Grove Cemetery Horseheads, NY on Tuesday February 26th at 11:00 AM with Pastor Cook conducting the Graveside Services. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be directed to the Elmira Christian Academy or the Book of Hope. Envelopes will be available at the church. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Olthof Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 Pennsylvania Ave. Elmira. Opal's guestbook may be signed in obituaries at www.olthof.com