With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Renate Greta Barnes, who left us on February 24, 2025, at the age of 84. She was a cherished wife, mother and grandmother and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Renate was born on August 29, 1940 in Neubrunn, Germany to Otto and Barbara Vaith. After surviving the war, she moved to Wurzburg ,Germany and worked from the age of 14 in different jobs to support herself. After coming to the United States and getting Naturalized she worked for the Federal Government for over 30 years primarily at Fort Eustis Army Base in Newport News, VA.

She was known for her wit, compassion, and generous demeanor.  She had a deep love for knitting, crocheting, cooking, gardening, and bingo. She volunteered over many decades for the American Legion and Disabled Veterans and her kindness and warmth touched everyone around her.

Renate Greta Barnes is survived by her children Jutta Barnes Spencer, Petra Michel and Hanns Bager, as well as grandchildren Charles Spencer, Jr., Courtney Spencer, Johannes Michel, Simon Michel, Courtney Sooth and great grandchild Miles May. She was preceded in death by her parents, Otto and Barbara Vaith, Husband, Lonnie Barnes and Son, Curtis Barnes.

A small private service will be held with immediate family, an additional memorial service to honor and celebrate Renate Greta Barnes’s life will be held on a later date in Germany. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Disabled Veterans of America in her memory.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in the beautiful memories we shared with Renate Greta Barnes. Her love and spirit will live on in our hearts forever.

Rest in peace, our dear friend, sister, wife, mother, and Omi. You will always be remembered and cherished.