Esther Jacobs Barnett

Esther Jacobs Barnett, 91, of Durham, North Carolina peacefully passed away on Friday, November 14, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was born in Robeson County, NC on April 1, 1934, to the late Kinlaw and Beulah Jacobs.

In addition to her parents, she is also preceded in death by her loving husband, James “Scrappy” Barnett and her brother, James “Buddy” Jacobs.

Mrs. Barnett was a dedicated Homemaker, who was a wonderful mother and wife who enjoyed taking care of her family and keeping discipline in the home. Esther loved cooking for everyone, holidays and big events especially brought her great joy.

Esther enjoyed going to the beach, especially with her grandchildren. She liked fishing, whether at the pond, pier or deep-sea fishing she was happy. Mrs. Barnett also enjoyed making crafts not only for her home but for family and friends.

Mrs. Barnett was a faithful Christian Woman, she was a member of Bethel Christian Center for over 50 years where she sang in the choir and was on the Ladies Auxiliary. She also enjoyed doing activities and volunteering at the Oak Grove Ruritan Club.

Esther was a vibrant woman with a great personality who with her quit wit provided comfort and humor in any situation. She will be remembered as an affectionate wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She will be deeply missed by everyone blessed to have known her.

Mrs. Barnett is survived by her sons, Ernest “Ray” Jones (Marilen), John Wayne Jones (Augustina) and Richard “Ricky” Jones; daughters, JoAnn Dunn; Gail Holder (Steve) and Beulah “Madge” Bradley (Larry); 19 grandchildren, 39 great grandchildren and numerous other loving family members and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at Hudson Funeral Home Chapel, 211 S. Miami Blvd., Durham, NC 27703. Rev. Stuart Aycock will officiate. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends prior to the service starting at 1:00 P.M.

Flowers are acceptable.