Shirley Ann Barnes

Shirley Ann Bernritter Barnes, 88, passed away at her home near Auburn, Tuesday, July 11, 2023. She was born June 15, 1935, to John and Lillian Fogel Bernritter in St. Marys, Kansas.

Growing up in the Havensville area, Shirley either walked or rode her horse, Nellie, bareback two miles to attend Grandview Grade School, a one-room school. She and her brother Jack participated in Shining Star 4-H Club. Her projects included raising Jersey calves, baking, and sewing. She took her calf and a chocolate cake to the State Fair. Shirley graduated in a class of 16 students from Havensville High School in 1953.

After being awarded a scholarship based on an essay she wrote, Shirley attended Stormont-Vail School of Nursing and graduated September 7, 1956. During nurses training, she met Jim Barnes on a blind date set up by a classmate. He had a sweet North Carolina drawl and wore an Air Force uniform. They were married two days after graduation, on September 9, 1956.

Shirley and Jim soon had three children: Sheryl Harrington (Rich), Lonnie Barnes (Michelle Castle), and Ronald Barnes. She continued her nursing career, working primarily at Santa Fe/Memorial Hospital and then St. Francis in Topeka as an operating room nurse for over 35 years, and then retired in 1996.

In retirement Shirley enjoyed her growing family, painting pictures, working outside, traveling, volunteering at church, and participating in the Jubilee Bible study group. She was a active member of Western Hills Baptist Church, Stormont-Vail Alumni Association, Havensville High School Alumni Association, Active Prime Timers, and the Tuesday Morning Ladies Breakfast Group.

Shirley is survived by her three children, 13 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren. Preceding her were her husband of 65 years, parents, and brother.

Celebration of Shirley's life and faith will be held Sunday, July 16, 2023, at the Auburn Community Center. Family visitation will be at 2:00 p.m. and the service at 3:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Auburn Community Center Association (ACCA) at 121 W. 11th Street, Auburn, KS 66402 or Western Hills Baptist Church at 2900 SW Auburn Road, Topeka, KS 66614.