Judith Carol (Darr) Barnes

Judith Carol (Darr) Barnes, 84, of Winfield, KS passed away Saturday, August 5, 2023 at William Newton Hospital.

Judy was born on December 2, 1938 in Dallas, TX to parents Elmer Cecil Darr and Mary Louise (Quinn) Darr. She graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1957 as class valedictorian, and she later graduated from the University of Texas in Arlington with a degree in history in 1962. Judy enjoyed studying history and philosophy and writing, and she used the pen name “Lira” when she painted or wrote. On July 3, 1958, Judy married Richard Barnes. Judy lived in Winfield from ’67-’68, Thousand Oaks, CA from ’68-’69, back to Winfield from ’69-’79, Dallas, TX from ’80-’86, and in ’86 moved back to Winfield, where she spent the remainder of her life.

She worked as a high school teacher for a year, then worked in marketing for S.L. Mossman Guitar Co. from 1972-1978. Judy was a talented artist, and in the early 80’s she followed her passion and began a greeting card business, which sold products all over the country. She retired in 2010. Judy was a member of the Faculty Dames of Southwestern College, she enjoyed reading, cooking, baking, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends.

Survivors include her husband of 65 years, Dick Barnes, daughter Jennifer Anne Irwin (Carrie Caley), grandchildren Dane and Tessa Irwin, siblings Jeanne Neal (John), and Janet Coplin (Linda Thomas), niece Hollie Morgan (Chris), nephew Christian Neal (Cara), great-nieces and nephew: Emerson, Beckett, and Amelia Morgan. She is preceded in death by her parents and son John David Barnes.

Private family services will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, donations may be left in the care of the Shelley Family Funeral Home of Winfield.