The life of Collette Barnes was a special one that leaves us with so many very special memories. She entered this world on February 8, 1959, to the parentage of James Lee Barnes and Adelaide Luke Barnes. She was raised in Albany, Georgia and educated in the Dougherty County School
System.

Collette accepted Christ at a young age and began a lifetime of Christian stewardship. She was a member of Littman Cathedral House of God Saints in Christ under the leadership of Bishop-Elect Michael White for numerous years. As she continued her journey with the Lord, she joined the Philadelphia Baptist Church under the leadership and guidance of Pastor Terry Price in Tallahassee, Florida. Through each season of her life, she remained steadfast and prayerful—always giving God the praise.

She was joined in holy matrimony to Bishop Eddie James Thomas, Sr. Their union was blessed with a son, Eddie James Jr. As a wife and mother, Colette looked well to the ways of her household and ate not the bread of idleness. Over the years, she worked untiringly to pursue excellence in her employment with AT&T in Atlanta, Georgia, Tennessee, and Jacksonville, Florida. She was an enthusiastic employee who always looked for optimal solutions to complex problems and was never satisfied with status quo. Colette concluded her working years at Florida State University where she was not only an employee but served as a mother to many and friend to most. Her passion and professional ethics often compelled her to go far beyond the call of duty.

A very engaging person with a zest for life, Collette had a servant's heart and a caring spirit. Although she was an only child, she embraced relationships with others who not only called her friend or cousin, but sister as well.

It was this crew that she often rolled with—traveling innumerable places that she enjoyed immensely. She was also a fan of fine dining and exquisite living. This was evidenced by her relentless exploration and consumption of rarefied, highbrow menu selections on restaurant outings.

To Collette, life was a dance, and she was not afraid to take the floor, pull a handle, and take a chance. Her instinct and undaunting courage made her adventurous and able to defy otherwise imposed barriers. It was this spirit of life that she sought to infuse in all of us.

She has left the floor but she leaves to both celebrate her life and mourn her earthly departure, a devoted son, Eddie James Thomas Jr.; two grandchildren, Jordan D 'Angelo Thomas and Jakai De'Anthony Spencer; an aunt/mother, Ms. Macy Owens, who raised her with her children-- Andrea, Sabrina and Dontavious; her son's father, Bishop Eddie James Thomas Sr. (Latricia); a special friend, Roy Albert and his mother Ms. Winnie Tolliver; a special sister/friend, Gail Rogers; and a host of cousins, extended family, and friends who were so special and dearly loved. Yes, she is gone but leaves us on the floor with great memories and this great desire, "I hope you dance.