Ora T. Barnes was born on November 24, 1936, in Parkdale, Arkansas, to the late William Henry Parker and Beatrice Parker. She went to her forever home to be with the Lord on August 6, 2026, at the age of 89. Ora was one of eight siblings.

Ora graduated from the Parkdale, Arkansas school system. Later in life, she attended Salem Vocational Technical School, where she obtained her certification in phlebotomy.

Ora was united in marriage to Ezell Barnes on September 17, 1958. From this union, they were blessed with five children: Derotha, Genevia, Stacey, Gail, and Ezell Jr. In May 1960, Ora relocated to Salem, New Jersey, along with their daughter, Derotha, to join her husband, who had gone ahead of her to seek better employment opportunities for his family.

Mrs. O. T., as she was affectionately known, was a lifelong and faithful member of St. Mark’s Church of the Living God, under the leadership of Elder Frank Richardson and, following his passing, Elder Virginia Richardson. Ora raised her children in the church and faithfully served as Church Secretary, Missionary, and Sunday School Teacher.

Mrs. O. T. always found time for the youth, especially on weekends. She was faithful in taking her children to the Bridgeton Skating Rink, where she never minded being their chaperone. Her dedication to her family, church, and community was evident in all that she did.

Throughout her working years, Ora was employed by Meals on Wheels, Midtown Rest Haven, Public Service Electric & Gas, Wheaton’s, Heinz Ketchup, Leon’s Glass Factory, and, ultimately, Anchor Glass, from which she retired.

Ora T. Barnes was a woman of unwavering faith and served as a pillar to both her church and her community. She was a faithful wife to her late husband, Ezell Barnes, and a devoted mother, sister, daughter, and grandmother. Ora’s life was defined by her deep love for God, whom she placed above all else. She tirelessly instilled that faith in her family and friends, teaching them that the true foundation of life is to love one another and to show grace and mercy, just as it has been given to us.

Her smile, grace, and style were a reflection of the beauty she carried within. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and devotion that will continue to guide and inspire all who knew and loved her.

In addition to her parents, Ora was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ezell Barnes, and her sisters, Marie and Mabel Ann, brothers; Herman, William and Clinton.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory her daughters, Derotha (James), Genevia, Stacey, and Gail (Russell); her son, Ezell (Tonya); six grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; her siblings, Beatrice and Erma; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family members, and friends.

Ora will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who had the blessing of knowing her.