Julie Marie Barnes, 62, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend passed away peacefully on May 20, 2026.

Born March 26, 1964, in Rochester, Minnesota, Julie was the daughter of Joseph and Judith Barnes. From an early age, she showed a deep love of math, numbers and problem solving. She graduated from Regis University with a degree in accounting and spent more than 15 years as an accountant.

Beyond her career and devotion to loving her children, Juile was deeply rooted in her family ties and community. Her family will especially remember her warm hugs, quick wit, continuous ability to end every conversation with "so" and make everyone around her feel welcomed.

She loved crocheting, cooking, getting her nails done and chatting with whomever she could. She spent her free time watching true crimes, solving word searches and reading any story by her favorite author James Patterson.

She is survived by the father of her two youngest children Derrick Sr of Arvada, Colorado, as well as son Michael Barnes, of Little Rock, Arkansas, daughter, Mercedes Clopton of Aurora, Colorado, son, DeMarea Clopton and daughter in law Paige Clopton of St. George, Kansas, and sister Jayne Knox of Ursa, Illinois and, sister in law Patty Barnes of Shelbina, Missouri. Her story continues with her three grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing her. She was preceded in death by her parents Joe and Judy Barnes, sister Jacquline and brother Joe Jr.

A memorial service honoring Julie's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 29, 2026, at J. Otto Funeral Home in Mendon, Illinois. Rev. Larry Smith will officiate. Inurnment will immediately follow at New Providence Cemetery near Ursa, Illinois.

Visitation will be held on Friday morning from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. at funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family for her headstone.

Though her family grieves her loss, they take comfort in the countless memories she created and the enduring love she leaves behind. Her kindness, grace, and generous spirit will continue to live on in all who knew her.