On December 28, 2010, the worst nightmare any parent can imagine was realized when the parents of Phylicia Barnes discovered that their daughter, on a trip to Baltimore, had not returned from a quick trip to grab a bite to eat.

Time increased that fear, and ultimately the family and our nation could only hope.

Last week, we learned that the body of Miss Barnes was found in the Susquehanna River, about 45 miles northeast of where she disappeared.

I had an opportunity to talk with her parents and extended family at Union Academy, where Miss Barnes was a 16-year-old high school senior.

In those conversations, it became evident that everyone shared the same hope – that somehow, Phylicia would be found alive. Strangers, neighbors, classmates and their parents went above and beyond during this time of loss.

Although it’s still uncertain what happened to Phylicia, it is certain that the love expressed to the Barnes through the community has helped the healing process began. Nothing is more beautiful than love expressed neighbor-to-another. For “the greatest of these is love.”

Amid all of the sadness surrounding the death of Miss Barnes, I am glad to know that she experienced in her life love from friends and family. Some live a lifetime and never come to that awareness.

Thank you, Phylicia, for exuding the characteristics that makes it easy to love: being a friend, having a positive spirit, excelling at life’s challenges, and leaving behind the most beautiful smile. I may not know what tomorrow holds, but I know who holds tomorrow. Miss Phylicia Barnes is in that company now.

A memorial service is planned for Thursday, April 28, at Lee Park Baptist Church (2504 Morgan Mill Road, Monroe) at 6:30 p.m.

Donations (of any amount) to help with funeral expenses can be made at:

Fifth Third Bank (nationally)
c/o The Phylicia Barnes Memorial Fund

Donations also may be mailed to:
The Phylicia Barnes Fund
American Community Bank
P.O. Box 5035
Monroe, NC, 28111
***
The Rev. John Hicks is CEO of the Namaste Network, a Charlotte nonprofit that assists families that have experienced tragedy. Visit www.tnnetwork.org.
 

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