Pamela Ruth (Young) Barnes

UTICA – Pamela Ruth (Young) Barnes, age 62, went home to be with the Lord following a courageous battle with cancer on Saturday, June 6, 2026. At the time of her passing, she was surrounded by those she loved most. Born in Rome on July 6, 1963, Pamela was the daughter of Althera (Johnson) Freeman and the late George R. Freeman, Ret. Sgt. UPD. During her life she also knew the love of her honorary father, O’Dell Young. She was a graduate of Whitesboro High School, Class of 1981. She then ventured to Pittsburg, PA to begin a career as an airline stewardess for Piedmont Airlines. Eventually, she worked out of the Onieda County Airport as an associate ticket agent. She also attended BOCES, receiving her secretarial training. She always had a zest for knowledge, and loved learning. Pamela once shared in a relationship with Samuel Smith. Pam and Sam’s union; came the blessing of their first daughter. At one time, she was wed to Charles Barnes. Her heart led her back to Samuel, and they would be blessed with three additional daughters. Taking advantage of her exceptional office managerial skills, she performed clerical work in the weekly operations office of the Seventh Day Adventist Church, where her mother was First Elder. Her skills allowed her to advance in other fields as well, including as a CNA at the Pines and St. Joseph’s Nursing Home, and at Cliff’s convenience mart as a food service manager. Pamela was a spitfire who was fueled by love and devotion. She was always the life of the party and was “world famous” for her potato salad. The Lord blessed her with a caring heart, and she never hesitated to help those in need. As a loving mom, she offered her opinions freely and sternly, but always with the understanding that her love was unconditional. She always loved a good celebration, especially her birthday. She enjoyed crocheting, especially blankets and personal gifts for her loved ones. Pamela was never happier than when she was surrounded by her family and those she loved most. Pamela is survived by her mother, Althera Freeman; her honorary father, O’Dell Young and his spouse; beloved daughters, Kiara Smith, Alyssa Young, Jasmine Young, and Briana Young; grandchildren, Jahnaesha, Kyla, Jahkym, Dineral, Jr., Zevon, twins Nakira and Nyara, Domante, Aneisah, and Jasiah; her great-granddaughter, Avanna, and she was proud to know a new great-grandson will be born in August; and sister, Karen Freeman-Barden, to whom Pamela was a loving sister and second mom. She was preceded by her brother, Michael A. Young, who passed away on May 4, 2024. She is additionally survived by a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews; aunts and uncles, especially acknowledging Deborah Clarence and Kathy Johnson; and cousins, especially Jeff Johnson and Wilhelmina Davis; and her long-time school friend, Tammy Hickey, Pernell Moore, and John Smith whom she loved as a brother. She was additionally preceded by her special cousin, Patrick Lamonte Johnson. Pamela’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the ICU staff on 3 West at Wynn Hospital for their compassionate care and kindness, especially Ashley, Irina, Navena, Jenna J., Dr. Desai, Trisha, and his oncology staff. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026, from 10:45-11:45 a.m. at St. Paul’s Baptist Church, 219 Leah St. Pamela’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 12:00 p.m. at the church. Interment will follow in New Forest Cemetery.

Pamela Ruth (Young) Barnes

July 6, 1963 - June 6, 2026