Jeanne R. Barrett

On the evening of March 5, 2021, Jeanne Rossie Barrett passed away peacefully. She had been resident in the Memory Care Unit at Sunrise of Mt. Vernon in Alexandria, Virginia. She was a native of Alexandria, graduating from Mount Vernon High School in 1955.

Jeanne was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Colonel Quentin Thomas Barrett. She was also preceded in death by her parents Lt. Col. William Louis Rossie, Sr., and Sethelle Barclift Rossie, and her brother, William Louis Rossie, Jr.

She is survived by her daughters Wendy Barrett Miller of Dunkirk, MD (Blaise) and Pamela (Pam) Barrett Crismond of Stafford, VA (David) and one son Clifton (Cliff) Thomas Barrett of Greensboro, NC (Karen). She is also survived by four grandchildren Graham Cairnes (Jennifer), Casey Cairnes (Chelsea), Brett Miller (Garrett) and Colt Miller (Lizeth); and seven great grandchildren.

Jeanne was affectionally known as "Mom" or "Memaw." Her love for her husband, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren (and beloved Irish Setter "Archie") was immeasurable. At whatever location her husband's travels took her she created and fostered a loving home. Jeanne personified the term "homemaker," preparing all the family meals, taking care of household chores, and seeing that her children were always where they needed to be for extracurricular activities. She enjoyed music and could always be heard singing or humming an old-time song. Dancing, which she taught for many years, was a favorite outlet. Often she could be found feeding her birds or digging in the dirt. She was blessed with a wonderful sense of humor and loved to laugh. Many counted Jeanne as a close and trusted friend.

It's been said that "[A] mother is your first friend, your best friend, your forever friend." This was certainly true for her children, who enjoyed an idyllic childhood because of her love and support. Her passing leaves a void which can never be filled.

In 2014, her golden years started turning dark when dementia intervened with her identity and life. Her husband cared for her until 2019 at which time she entered assisted living.

A private graveside service will be held in the Mount Comfort Cemetery on Friday, March 12 at 11:00 am.