Kingston, NH

Peabody, MA

Joanne "Jodi" Barnes journeyed home to God early Sunday morning, March 8, 2009, surrounded by
family. Born on December 4, 1948, to Henry D. and Anna (Lundergan) Matusiak, Joanne was educated
in Danvers Schools and received her degree in education from Salem State College in 1970.

A teacher for almost 40 years, Joanne taught at St. Thomas the Apostle School in Peabody. Upon its closing, she went to St. John the Baptist School in Peabody, where she has spent the last 36 years instructing fourth graders, who remember her as "nice", "kind", "caring", "loving", and "never raising
her voice."

Creator of "Poetry Junction ," Joanne was an accomplished poet and calligrapher, who sold her original
poems at craft shows throughout New England. Her poetry was based on family, real life situations, and
relationships. They were in insightful, inspiring, poignant, and sometimes humorous.

A study in courage during her illness, Joanne was a gentle woman who loved nature, especially the time
she spent in her garden. An avid birdwatcher, she particularly loved hummingbirds and roosters. She
was also talented in home decorating.

Joanne will be sorely missed by her sister, Elizabeth (Beth) Matusiak of Ipswich, her brothers Richard
Matusiak and John Matusiak of Maine, her nieces Michelle and Jeanne and, her nephew Michael, as well
as her several grandnieces and nephews, her many friends, colleagues, and her cherished students.
Her precious companions, Angel and Baby, will miss their devoted caretaker. She was the former wife of
Brian Barnes with whom she shared 21 years of marriage.

Her funeral will be held on Saturday March 14, 2009 at 9:00 A.M. in St. John the Baptist Church, 16 Church St. Peabody, MA 01960. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Visitation will
be on Friday from 2:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at St. Johns the Baptist Church. Interment will be in St.
Mary's Cemetery, Salem. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Joanne Barnes
Sholarship Fund, c/o St. John's the Baptist School, 19 Chestnut St., Peabody, MA 01960. For online guest
book or additional information please call 978 744 0497 or
visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com.