Terry Ann Barnes

Lakeland, FL-Terry Ann Barnes, 74, of Lakeland FL, passed away on February 10, 2026, under the comforting care of hospice. Born in Albany, NY, on August 24,1951, Terry was the daughter of Theresa and Howard Barnes. She was a graduate of Notre Dame High School in Schenectady, NY, and received her bachelor’s degree from SUNY Plattsburgh. She achieved her master’s degree from the University of Phoenix. Most of her working career was spent with the federal government. First with Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory in Niskayuna, NY and later with the IRS which included stops in Washington D.C., Scottsdale, Fort Lauderdale and finally Lakeland. In between federal jobs, Terry was a novice with the Carmelite sisterhood. She took her temporary vows for 3 years, but then chose to return to secular life. Terry was predeceased by her loving parents, as well as her youngest sibling Mary Collins. She was also predeceased by her long time friend Yolanda Rodriguez. She is survived by her brothers Ken (Jeanne), Howard (Sue) and Gene (Patty) as well as her brother-in-law Greg Collins. Terry is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. Terry was diagnosed with Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA), a variant of Alzheimer’s disease. Almost 9 years were spent in Memory Care facilities. Although PCA slowly robbed Terry of abilities, it could not take away her core as a friendly and lovable person. Her many caregivers, as well as others, often commented about our “sweet Terry”. She was a person with a helpful nature, whether it be caring for her mom, helping family, friends, coworkers, or wanting to help others at the memory care facility in earlier years. Terry was a lover of animals, particularly cats. She, along with Yolie, rescued, fostered and brought about the adoption of many homeless cats. She was an SPCA volunteer. The family would like to extend their appreciation and gratitude to the staffs of Sr. Helpers, The Health Coach, Brookdale Highlands, Grace Manor at Lake Morton and Vitas Hospice for their support and care. Heartfelt thanks to those devoted caregivers on “Team Terry” during her journey. They include Katelyn, Cheryl, Jazmin, Dartoria, Phyllis, Alisha, Charlene, Roberta, Nurse Janet, and especially Nicole who lavished Terry with TLC and laughter for more than 5 years. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Terry’s family Saturday, April 11, 2026 from 9:30-11:00 am at McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 North Allen Street, Albany, NY 12206. Please enter the funeral home from the rear parking lot entrance only. A Catholic Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Blessed Sacrament Church Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 11:30 am. The Rite of Committal will be held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Waterford, NY immediately following the Mass. To leave a message for the family please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com Those who wish may send contributions in Terry’s name to an animal care facility of their choice or the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org).

Tributes

Terry Ann Barnes

August 24, 1951 - February 10, 2026