Ada Jean "Hess"

Barnes

Ada Jean (Hess) Barnes, 89, of Proctorville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully in her sleep on November 9, 2026. She was the beloved wife of Retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major Bobby Ray Barnes, with whom she shared nearly 70 years of marriage.

Born December 19, 1936, in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, Ada was the daughter of Brigadier Gilbert Hess and Priscilla Hess, both Salvation Army officers. She was raised in a family devoted to Christian faith and service, values that would guide her throughout her life. Ada and Bobby attended Salvation Army College together and were both ordained as ministers. She later served as a military religious coordinator in Kaiserslautern, Germany, continuing her lifelong commitment to ministry and service. She was a Southern Baptist and attended Hyde Park Baptist Church in Lumberton, North Carolina.

Ada was a gifted writer, musician, pianist, and choir director. She wrote stories, plays, Christian newsletters for her Joy Club. She was equally known for her quirky personality and wonderful sense of humor, often reminding family and friends of Lucille Ball. As a mother, she could be a strict disciplinarian, especially during her husband's military deployment, but she also loved spoiling her children.

Ada married Bobby on April 6, 1957. Together they raised three children: Bobbi R. Britt, married to Davy L. Britt, who both preceded her in death; Jeffrey G. Barnes (Chip), married to Rose M. Barnes; and Elizabeth S. Clemmons (Dede), married to Howard J. Clemmons.

She leaves behind ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, Her legacy of faith, laughter, music, creativity, and love will continue through the generations of family she cherished.

In the words of Matthew 25:21, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

Viewing

Friday, November 13, 2026 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Floyd Mortuary 

809 East 5th Street, Lumberton, NC 28358 (910) 738-8144

Celebration of Life & Funeral Service

Saturday, November 14, 2026 11:00 AM

Hyde Park Baptist Church

301 North Roberts Avenue, Lumberton, NC 28358 (910) 739-4780