Former Gleaner editor Joan Barnett lauded

Philando Neil, Gleaner Intern

FORMER GLEANER News Editor Joan Marjorie Barnett was yesterday remembered as a woman who was dedicated and meticulous in her work, and who cherished her family and friends.

Mourners transformed the Meadowrest Memorial Chapel in Whittaker's Mountain, St Catherine, into a sea of black and white as they assembled to celebrate the journalist's life.

Barnett, 64, died on August 1 after being hospitalised for two weeks at the Kingston Public Hospital ( KPH). She leaves behind mother Vera; brother Desmond; sister-in-law Norma, nieces, nephews other relatives and friends. Glowing tributes in song were paid to Barnett, conveying to the congregation that she was indeed an outstanding soul.

In his sermon, officiating minister Ian Boyne reminded mourners that it was imperative that they live exemplary lives, like that of Barnett, so others could emulate her.

"A man's life does not consist of the abundance of things possessed, but how they live," said Boyne, who is also a journalist. "Joan lived her life in total dedication to her mother. She was a family-oriented person, a hard worker and she will be surely missed."

Boyne, noting that he had first come to know Barnett as a church sister, told mourners that he shared his personal experiences with her and lamented the loss of a woman with a great sense of humour and an extraordinary, bubbly personality.

"She has left behind a legacy that we will never forget and she will always be in our hearts," he added.

Giving the remembrance, Carlton Gordon reflected on Barnett's career.

Barnett joined the Gleaner staff as a news editor in January 1990 and held that position until she resigned in July 1993. She returned as a reporter in February 1996 and left in January 1998.

Prior to joining The Gleaner, Barnett worked at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before becoming the foreign affairs editor at The Jamaica Herald newspaper.

Barnett was later laid to rest at the Meadowrest Memorial Gardens.