Judy Cowley Barnes

She touched the lives of many and lived the Golden Rule by example. Judy was a member of Meadow Brook Baptist Church, where she served on the Finance Committee and volunteered for VBS. She was an avid supporter of the Jimmy Hale Mission and Law Enforcement. A graduate of Samford University and a CPA, she had a long successful career in Corporate Finance (Healthcare), working with several esteemed corporations including Carraway, Health Partners and retiring from Viva Healthcare.

Born on April 24, 1954, she grew up in Bessemer and attend 7th Street Baptist Church, where she met her future husband Norman “Jerry” Barnes. Judy & Jerry married on August 16, 1975, and drove off to their future in a bright yellow VW Bug. A few years later, they welcomed their two children, Jeremy and then Judson. After moving to Shelby County, they found their church home at Meadow Brook Baptist Church.

Judy enjoyed spending time with her Grandchildren, channeling her creative spirit, serving those around her, and pouring love into everyone’s lives. She will be remembered for her love of the Lord, her servant’s heart, and her infectious laughter.

Judy is survived by her son Judson Barnes (Aimee), Grandchildren Cole Barnes, Anne & Jeremy Barnes, her sister Jo Ann Jarrell (Pat) of Mineola, TX, Cathy Cowley of Pelham, AL and a multitude of other beloved nieces, nephews and extended family. In addition, to family, she leaves behind her Sunday School Class, the “J Birds” and many dear friends she met through her lifetime.

She is predeceased by her husband Norman “Jerry” Barnes, her son Jeremy V. Barnes, siblings William L. Hulsey, Harvey P. Cowley, Jr. and parents Harvey P. and Helen T. Cowley.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Meadow Brook Baptist Church on December 23, 2019. Visitation at 12:30 pm, Service at 2:00 pm. To continue Judy’s passion for her church home, memorial donations should be directed to the Meadow Brook Baptist Church Building Fund.