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Cardinal Micheaux Barnes, 37, affectionally called Mickey by his friends and family, was born on July 19, 1983, in Richmond, Virginia. From day one, he was an adventure-seeking child and could be found performing his "Great Escape" from his crib to continue exploring and playing in his room. His parents are still not sure how he was able to do it. But it was a testament to his determination in life to chase what he wanted. Not only did he keep his parents on their toes, but he was also known to keep the family laughing from his silly jokes and witty personality. Mickey had chronic asthma as a child, and the medications caused him to gain weight, so the family packed up and moved to the drier climate of Arizona when Mickey was six, along with his younger siblings, who were 4 and 2 at the time. This move helped his asthma and allowed him to enjoy many outdoor sports, including T-ball and golf, in which he was able to meet Tiger Woods & Phi Mickelson's as a Desert Mashie Junior Golfer. Mickey "Boldly" asked to borrow Phil Mickelson's golf club (also a lefty), which Phil obliged. Mickey teed off a "Fabulous Shot" on the First swing, and the Pro's gave him congratulatory remarks. Mickey attended elementary and high school in Phoenix, Arizona, graduating from Cactus High School. He attended Glendale Community College in Phoenix for Sound Engineering; he was indeed a lover of music.
He was a big brother, son, cousin, friend, and all-around "Gentle Giant," towering at a slim 6'4". He was the only lefty in the Barnes household, which made him extra special when we went out to eat as a family; he loved to sit on the end seat to get more elbow room. He loved to rap, write music, draw, shoot basketball and think of new ways to "take over the world". No dream was ever too big for him to chase. He often talked about owning his own business, making lots of money, and living by the beach in his favorite city, Miami. He loved beaches, pools, and any form of water. If you ever spent any time with Mickey, you know he was brilliant, loving, and cared a lot for his family. He was their number one cheerleader even when he could not be with them in person to experience their successes. He had an unusual Gourmet palate. He fried Tuna, loved "Glow Eggs," and made unique casseroles with a mixture of ingredients that only his family could love. He hated bologna and hot dogs but love fresh fish, which he called "Bone Fish." His weekly calls to check-in will be missed by his siblings and parents.
Mickey transitioned to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 6, 2021, in Arizona. He has returned to Virginia, his place of birth, as his final resting place. He was preceded in death by an older sister, Karliss Monique, paternal grandparents, Doris B. Lightfoot & George N. Barnes Sr., and maternal grandfather, James "Cooper" Cooke. He is survived by his parents, Debra and George; two younger siblings, Raven Ciera Barnes of Maryland and Starling Antione Barnes of Arizona; maternal Grandmother, Mary A. Cooke; and a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, other relatives, and friends.
A homegoing celebration will be held at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 21, 2021, at Whiting's Funeral Home, with a viewing beginning at 2:00 p.m. Due to the current health pandemic, only 50 people may be in attendance with facial coverings and social distance requirements. Livestream will be available at the beginning of the service. If you are attending the services in person or viewing online, join us in this 'Celebration of Life' for Mickey by wearing Blue or items with Blue accents to represent his favorite color.
Professional services entrusted to the staff of Whiting's Funeral Home, 7005 Pocahontas Trail, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185. 757-229-3011. whitingsfuneralhome.com
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