Helen Barrie Finney

Helen Barrie Finney, a woman of grace, humor, and boundless love, departed this world peacefully in her sleep on June 15, 2026, following a brief illness. Born on December 26, 1942, in the charming town of Roanoke, Virginia, Barrie, as she was affectionately known, lived a life filled with warmth, love, and laughter. Barrie was the cherished daughter of Helen and Hank Davis, and she grew up alongside her sister, Myra, and brother, Michael. Her childhood was marked by a close-knit family and the values instilled by her parents, which she carried throughout her life. Sadly, she was predeceased by her beloved parents, her dear sister Myra, and her grandson Matt Finney, whom she held close in her heart. A devoted wife, Barrie shared 53 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Garnett Russell Finney. Their love story was a testament to enduring partnership and mutual respect. Together, they built a family that became the center of Barrie's world. She is survived by her loving husband, her brother Michael and his wife Susan, and her children: Barbara Duncan and her husband Jim, Don Finney, Steve Finney and his wife Jan, Ginger Kinman and her husband Quinton, Pepper Finney, and Maggie Barry and her husband Richard. Barrie's legacy is carried forward by her 11 grandchildren: Clayton, Ethan, Ariel, and Harrison Finney; Davis, and his wife Madison, and Drew Finney; Helen and Peyton Kinman; and Michael and his wife Sarah Elizabeth, and Lucy Barry. Though she leaves behind no great-grandchildren, her family remains close-knit and deeply connected, a testament to her life’s work as the heart and soul of their gatherings. A woman of many talents and interests, Barrie had a knack for bringing beauty into the world. Her love for decorating, antiquing, flower arranging, and cooking was well known, and she often shared these passions with those around her. Her quick wit and delightful sense of humor endeared her to countless friends, keeping everyone around her entertained and uplifted. Her community involvement was equally vibrant. Barrie was an integral part of the Charity League of Martinsville, Virginia, and dedicated her time as one of the Pink Ladies at Athens Memorial. Perhaps most significantly, she was a founding member of St. Stephen’s Anglican Church in Athens, where her contributions to the altar guild were invaluable. Barrie will be remembered as a beloved matriarch who worked tirelessly to maintain family traditions, ensuring that holidays and events were celebrated together. Her unwavering dedication to family and friends created bonds that will endure for generations. Helen Barrie Finney touched many lives with her kindness, humor, and unwavering commitment to family and community. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be dearly missed, but her spirit will continue to guide and inspire those who loved her. In celebration of Barrie's life, a service will be held at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church in Athens, with details to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Charity League of Martinsville or St. Stephen’s Anglican Church in her honor. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love she so generously gave.