Margaret Hickman Barnes

Margaret Hickman Barnes, 99, of West Hartford, CT, and formerly of Glencoe, IL, died peacefully, March 9, 2021. Born February 16, 1922, in Greensboro, NC, Margaret was the daughter of the late George R. and the late Henrietta D. Hickman. She moved extensively as a girl, living in Birmingham, AL, San Francisco, CA (her favorite city), Arlington, NJ, and Boston, MA, where she attended Katherine Gibbs Secretarial School, graduating in 1942. A devoted wife and mother, Margaret was predeceased by her husband, the late R. Marshall Barnes, who was the love of her life. She was also predeceased by her brother, the late George R. Hickman, and by her best friend, the late Barbara Fisher. Margaret is survived by her seven children, Nancy B. Day of New York, NY, Jo Anne Barnes of Newark, DE, James H. Barnes (Mary) of New Haven, CT, Henry M. Barnes (Linda) of Franklin, TN, William R. Barnes of Fraser, CO, Carol M. Barnes of West Hartford, CT, and John H. Barnes (Eleanor) of West Hartford, CT, as well as seven grandchildren, Katherine Schock, Alice Schock, Meredith Barnes, Sarah Barnes (Aaron McClatchy), Alexander Barnes (Tory), R. Marshall Barnes II, and Caroline Barnes, and one great grandchild, James McClatchy. Margaret’s vivacious and radiant beauty could light a room. She read extensively her entire life, and was particularly fond of biographies. Her frequent letters, written in stylish and distinctive penmanship, will be cherished by family and friends alike. She had many interests throughout her life, beginning with roller skating as a girl, going to the movies, gardening, foreign languages (especially French), needlepoint, painting, chocolate desserts, Scrabble, crossword puzzles, conversation, and above all else spending time with family and friends. She also enjoyed taking walks, watching national news, attending courtroom closing arguments, and dog-sitting her son’s golden retrievers. She had little tolerance for pretension, and avoided anything fake. She detested plastic, shopping malls, showy houses, and she never really cared much for the beach. With her focus on creating a comfortable loving home, she, together with Marshall, gave their children the gift of a strong and secure family in which to grow up. She gracefully sat through countless hours of ballet and music recitals, or on the sidelines of sports fields and ice skating rinks. What she sought out were all things natural and authentic. She found deep pleasure when, out for her daily walks, she happened upon a wildflower or fall leaf which she would save and use as inspiration for the witty and beautiful greeting cards she made. She will be remembered for her quick wit and warm smile, as well as for her patience, her kindness, and her unconditional devotion and love to her family. She will be missed by all who knew her. The family wishes to express its gratitude to McLean Hospice (especially Cassandra, Robin, Susan, Urszula, Leah, and Michelle), for the exceptional care given to Margaret, allowing her comfort and peace during her final days. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Margaret’s memory can be made to McLean Hospice, Simsbury CT, or The Salvation Army of Hartford, CT. Burial will be private.