Debra Wilhelmina Barnes

Debra Wilhelmina Barnes, 69, of Pulaski Lane, Carrsville, Virginia, transitioned Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at VCU Medical Center.

Debra Wilhelmina Riddick Barnes was born on August 11, 1955 as the youngest of 4 children to David J. Riddick and Evelyn Louise Hurdle Riddick. She grew up in Suffolk, VA; attended Florence Bowser Elementary School and was a 1973 graduate of John Yeates High School. After high school, she attended Norfolk State University, where she majored in social work.

Debra’s employment history included several roles which revolved around being of service. She was a bus driver for Suffolk City Public Schools for 10 years. Worked at QVC as a corrugate handler for close to 10 years. After QVC, she became a Correctional Officer, serving at Greensville Correctional Center, Sussex I State Prison and also Sussex II State Prison. During her time as a C.O., she received several letters of acknowledgement and in Oct 2017 she received the “Officer of the Month” Award. She retired from State Service on March 2, 2018

Debra has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew her and will always be remembered for her passions - Photography, Cooking and BINGO. If you saw her out and about, you could almost guarantee she was going to have her camera with her. What started out as a hobby soon evolved into a part time career. Debra took her photography very seriously and was meticulous with her work, often having pictures and photo albums printed and delivered within a few days. With regards to cooking, she always made enough to feed an army, but food was another way she showed her love.

She was predeceased by her parents & her siblings Tyrone Riddick & Darryle Teresa Powell. Left to mourn her memory: her loving husband, Larry D. Barnes; Daughters, Caressa N. Riddick , Latesha M. Barnes & Kayla S. Barnes; Step-son, Larry (Don) Barnes (Debra); her brother Larry Riddick (JoAnn); and a host of Aunts, Uncles, Sisters-in-Law, Brothers-in-Law, Nieces, Nephews, Cousins & special friends.

Debra’s spirit and unwavering kindness defined her essence, creating a legacy of warmth and compassion that will forever be cherished.

A viewing will be held from 3-5 p.m. on Monday, April 7, followed by a wake from 5-7 p.m in the Melvin J. Blowe Chapel of Crocker Funeral Home. A service will be held at Pulaski Baptist Church, 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 8. She will be laid to rest at Carver Memorial Cemetery. Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home, Inc.