Brenda Dianne Jones Barnes, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and dedicated community leader, passed away peacefully on Sept. 16, 2024. Born on April 6, 1949, in New Haven, Connecticut, Brenda was the eldest daughter of Ernest Jones, Sr. and Mamie D. Jones.
A graduate of Hillhouse High School in 1967, Brenda continued her education at South Central Community College, where she earned an Associate Degree in Radiology. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to Southern Connecticut State University, where she worked towards a Bachelor’s Degree while staying in the Schwartz Hall dormitory and was inducted into The Golden Key International Honour Society in 2017. Brenda always valued education and shared that love with others.
Throughout her life, Brenda held numerous meaningful roles in the workforce. She began working for her father at Rite-Way Cleaners and Tailors, gaining early experience in business operations. Later, she worked as a licensed cosmetologist in her mother’s salon at the New Haven House of Beauty. Brenda went on to work in varied positions including a radiology technician, a customer service representative at Comcast, and an entrepreneur with Melaleuca and YTB Travel. Later, she worked as a financial assistant at Ernst & Young, Bristol Myers Squibb, and Yale University Comer School Development Program. Brenda’s work showcased her passion for connecting with people, and her ability to build lasting friendships with coworkers was a testament to her kind heart.
Brenda was a vibrant part of her community. She was deeply involved in numerous initiatives, including Dwight Daycare, Granville Academy, and Higher Heights, earning many awards and accolades for her service. A committed public servant, Brenda ran for Alderwoman of Ward 13 in New Haven in 2011 and proudly won her election, where she advocated for her community with passion and dedication.
Her faith journey took her to various churches over the years, including St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, World Changers Church International in Atlanta, GA, Wayfaring Ministries, and Living Word Ministries/ Vertical Church. Brenda’s love for God and her community were central to her life.
An avid lover of nature, Brenda found beauty in trees, butterflies, and the environment. She was a firm advocate of recycling and ensuring the planet remained safe for future generations. She delighted in the simple joys of life, especially spending time with her grandchildren and supporting education initiatives in New Haven Public Schools.
Brenda was predeceased by her parents, Ernest Jones, Sr. and Mamie Jones. She is survived by many loved ones who will treasure her memory. Brenda was the cherished big sister to Ernest Jones, Jr., Wanda Morton (Walter), Cheryl Jones, Marc Jones, Sr., and sister-in-law Vanessa Jones. She was also a beloved bonus sibling to Shirley Moss. Brenda was a devoted mother to Hon. Scott M. Jones (MyLinh), Rhonda Johnson (David), Lynai Mufungizi (Innocent), Moe Barnes, and bonus daughters Elizabeth Adzenyah and Theresa Ervin. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Emanuel Luck, Erica Jones, Alissa Jones, Nina Jones, Aaliyah Parrish, Innocent II Mufungizi, Yves Mufungizi, and extended grands Ke’John Ervin and Darnell Lucky. She is also survived by a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. Brenda will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the countless lives she touched. Her legacy of love, faith, community service, and activism will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A homegoing celebration to honor Brenda’s remarkable life will be held on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at Vertical Church, 225 Meloy Road, West Haven, CT. The visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the service at 10:00 a.m. The burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, 769 Ella T. Grasso Boulevard, New Haven, CT. A repast will follow at the church after the burial.
Professional services entrusted to Curvin K. Council Funeral Home, 128 Dwight Street, New Haven. An online register book is available at curvinkcouncil.com