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Hilda Louise Barnett, a beloved mother and cherished grandmother, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 13, 2023, in Chesapeake, Virginia. She was surrounded by the love of her family and friends.

Born on February 6, 1945, Hilda Louise was adopted at a young age by Robert and Hilda Bembry. After her mother's passing, Robert married Daisy who assisted in raising Lou until she left for college. She grew up in Edenton, North Carolina, where she developed a strong sense of compassion and a deep commitment to family. It was during her formative years that the foundation for a future marked by academic excellence and a thirst for knowledge were laid.

Hilda, affectionately known as "Lou," demonstrated early on a passion for learning and a dedication to her studies. She began her educational journey in North Carolina and also spent a brief time attending school in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Lou returned to North Carolina where she graduated with distinction from Perquimans County Union School in the class of 1963.

Continuing her pursuit of knowledge, Lou earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Virginia State College, Norfolk Campus (now Norfolk State University) in 1968. This accomplishment showcased her dedication to the sciences and laid the groundwork for a career marked by intellectual curiosity and a commitment to understanding the world around her. Never one to rest on past achievements, Lou furthered her academic journey by obtaining a Master's Degree in Urban Studies from Norfolk State University in 1989.

Lou dedicated her life to the noble profession of teaching. She spent 36 years inspiring and shaping the minds of countless students throughout the Chesapeake Public School District. Her enthusiasm for education was contagious, and her impact on the lives of her students extended far beyond the classroom. She began her career as a science teacher at Crestwood High School and later taught at Indian River High School and Dorothy H. Truitt Jr. High School. It was during her tenure at Truitt where in addition to her teaching duties, her leadership qualities became evident when she was appointed to the role of science department chair. This position led Lou to the role of science supervisor for the Chesapeake Public School District where she remained until her retirement in 2004. During her career, Lou received numerous accolades including Truitt's Teacher of the Year in 1991.  After retiring, Lou continued to make an impact as a consultant at Old Dominion University where she mentored aspiring educators. Many remember her as not only a teacher but also a mentor and a friend.

In addition to her career, Lou dedicated her life to creating a warm and nurturing home for her family, where love and happiness echoed through the halls. She married Arthur "Butch" Barnett, Jr. in 1968, and together they built a life filled with devotion, laughter, and shared experiences. As a mother, she was the epitome of patience, kindness, and unwavering support. Her children, Kevin, Sean and Wesley, also known as "her boys," were the center of her world, and she took immense pride in their accomplishments. She instilled in them the values of compassion, perseverance, and the importance of education. She relished in seeing them grow and develop into the men they are today.

As an adult, Lou was reunited with her biological mother, Annie Boone. It was through this heartwarming reunion that Lou was able to reconnect with her siblings, Annie Simpson (William) of Roper, NC, Lula Simpson (Ramos) of Roper, NC, Willie Boone, Jr. of Plymouth, NC, Doris Brooks (James) of Plymouth, NC, John Boone (Gloria) of Plymouth, NC, Irene Spruill (Samuel) of Troy, MI, Louis Boone (Kaye) of Plymouth, NC, James Boone of Jamesville, NC, Ella Bell (Joel) of Jamesville, NC and Calvin Boone of Plymouth, NC.

Lou was known for her love of cooking; she enjoyed preparing large meals for her family and friends. She made sure no one ever left her home hungry and would send loved ones on their way with enough food to last for days! Her quick wit and generous spirit endeared her to everyone she met, and her positive impact on the lives of others will be remembered fondly.

Lou is survived by her loving children, Kevin (Joy), Sean (Marcia) and Wesley (Stephanie). She is also survived by her grandchildren, Jasmine, Maia, Ciarra, Jair, Nile, Mason, and Logan; great-grandsons, Kasai and Jordan. She was looking forward to the birth of her third great-grandson, Satori. Additionally, she leaves five sisters and four brothers. She also leaves a brother-in-law, Shelby Barnett and sister-in-law, Linda Johnson (Joe) as well as a host of family and friends. Lou had two very special friends, Pearl Hunt and Mildred Hawkins, both affectionately known to the family as "Aunt Pearl" and "Aunt Mildred" who will miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her brother, Calvin and husband of 52 years, Butch.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Lou's special friends for their compassionate care during her final days.

Lou's passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in eternal peace.