Esther G. Freed Barnes Rich
Nov. 4, 1937-Feb. 12, 2022
Esther G. Freed Barnes Rich, 94, of Lafayette and a former New Richmond resident, passed away Saturday, Feb. 12, 2022, at IU Health Hospital Lafayette, following a period of failing health.
She was born Nov. 4, 1927, at Wolcott, to the late Fred and Sylvia Royce Freed. She first married Francis Wayne Barners on June 30, 1945. He preceded her in death June 23, 1977. She married Charles Rich on Sept. 5, 1978. He preceded her in death Dec. 4, 1995.
Esther was a graduate of Jackson Heights High School. She was employed at Landis-Gyr for many years as a production worker. She later was employed by Weaver Popcorn in New Richmond. Previously she owned and operated the New Richmond Grocery. She had enjoyed square dancing, horse racing, gambling, gardening and canning her produce.
Surviving are her two sons, Marvin Barnes and Leonard (Mariam) Barnes, both of New Richmond; daughter-in-law Sue Barnes; grandchildren, Tracy Michael, Rhonda (Bub) Cook, Misty (Brad) Mills, Dustin (Daymia) Barnes, Christina Sanchez, Samuel Sanchez and Matthew Barnes; great-grandchildren, Haley Michaels, Nash Barnes, Abby Cole, Clay Linn and Austin (Kelsey) Barnes.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands; daughter Judy Barnes; son Terry Barnes; two brothers, Harold and Raymond Freed; two sisters, Agnes and Ruth; and grandson Robby Childress.
Visitation hours are noon to 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 18 at Family and Friends Funeral Home of Wingate, with funeral services following at 2 p.m., with Pastor Mary Hollis officiating. Interment will follow in West Point Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to charity of one’s choice.
Visit us at www.familyandfriendsfh.com to sign the guest book or leave a condolence.
