Jean F. "Gumby" Barnes
January 29, 1934 — January 25, 2016
Send a Sympathy Card
Past Services
Visitation
Funeral Service
Jean F. "Gumby" Barnes
Jean was born on January 29, 1934, one of two children of the late John F. and Helen J. (Devine) Collins. Born and raised in Melrose, Jean graduated from Melrose High School and settled in Melrose to raise two children.After her children had grown, she returned to the workforce as a Nurses Aid at MacKenzie Nursing Home in Melrose. Her work with the elderly brought her much satisfaction and joy.
Jean was a free spirit who found a way to have fun in everything she did. She always loved the color green so as a Grandmother she gave herself the nickname of "Gumby." At a moment's notice, she would put on a silly hat, scarf, or full costume just to make people laugh. She was known to whistle or sing while she worked, and loved music and dancing. She loved spending time with children, being outside, gardening, and took at least one walk everyday. She stayed young at heart for most of her life, by remembering to smile, laugh, and have fun.
In retirement, she and Richard "Pop" found their happiness grow together at Yankee Land Campground in Kennebunkport, Maine. It was a special place for the two of them, and the feeling extended into each of their families as they each brought their children and grandchildren to visit. For Gumby and Pop, Yankee Land meant being together while enjoying the outdoors, and enjoying the company of friends, family, and neighbors. Yankee Land was like taking a step back in time with daily walks, bike rides and beach days followed by socializing around the campfire or catching fireflies at night. The feeling of a day outside near the ocean, and the joy of being with family and longtime friends meant so much to Jean.
Above all else, Gumby loved being with her family. She loved celebrating the holidays, big get- togethers, and family cookouts. She will be lovingly remembered by her family and longtime friends.
Jean was the beloved wife of the late Richard E. Barnes with whom she shared 36 years of marriage. Devoted mother of Christine M. Zinna and her husband Peter of Ipswich, and John M. Higgins of Somerville. Caring step-mother of Laura Eddy of Saugus, and Daniel Barnes and his wife Bonnie of Saugus. Dear sister of the late Robert F. Collins. Cherished grandmother of Adam R. Drew of NC, Diana M. Sheahan of NC, Katrina Eddy of Saugus, Danielle Barnes of Saugus, Samantha Barnes of Saugus, Alexandra Barnes of Saugus, and Ricky Barnes of Saugus.
Relatives and friends will gather in honor of Jean during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Friday, Jan. 29 from 12-1pm, followed by her Life Celebration at 1pm.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Jean F. "Gumby" Barnes, please visit our flower store.
Past Services
Visitation
Friday, January 29, 2016
12:00 - 1:00 pm
Robinson Funeral Home
Funeral Service
Friday, January 29, 2016
Starts at 1:00 pm
Robinson Funeral Home
Photo Gallery
Guestbook
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
