Esther G. Freed Barnes Rich

Nov. 4, 1927 – Feb. 12, 2022

Esther G. Freed Barnes Rich, 94, Lafayette and a former New Richmond resident, passed away Saturday, Feb. 12, 2022 at IU Health Hospital Lafayette, following a period of failing health.

She was born in Wolcott, Ind. on Nov. 4, 1927 to the late Fred and Sylvia Royce Freed.

She first married Francis Wayne Barners June 30, 1945 and he preceded her in death June 23, 1977. She married Charles Rich Sept. 5, 1978 and he preceded her in death Dec. 4, 1995.

She was a graduate of Jackson Heights High School. She was employed at Landis-Gyr for many years as a production worker. She later was employed by Weaver Popcorn in New Richmond. Previously she owned and operated the New Richmond Grocery. She had enjoyed square dancing, horse racing, gambling, gardening and canning her produce.

Survivors include two sons, Marvin Barnes and Leonard (Mariam) Barnes both of New Richmond; a daughter-in-law, Sue Barnes; grandchildren, Tracy Michael, Rhonda (Bub) Cook, Misty (Brad) Mills, Dustin (Daymia) Barnes, Christina Sanchez, Samuel Sanchez and Matthew Barnes; great-grandchildren, Haley Michaels, Nash Barnes, Abby Cole, Clay Linn and Austin (Kelsey) Barnes.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands; daughter, Judy Barnes; son, Terry Barnes; two brothers, Harold and Raymond Freed; two sisters, Agnes and Ruth; and grandson, Robby Childress.

Visitation hours are scheduled 12 – 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 18, 2022 at Family and Friends Funeral Home of Wingate, with funeral services following at 2 p.m., with Pastor Mary Hollis officiating. Interment will follow in West Point Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be directed to charity of one’s choice. Visit us at www.familyandfriendsfh.com to sign the guest book or leave a condolence.