Leanda Adeline Barnett November 27, 1929 — May 14, 2026

A Life Rooted in Faith

Leanda Adeline Barnett (née Riewe), a beloved daughter of God, was called home to her heavenly rest on May 14, 2026, at the age of 96. Leanda was born on November 27, 1929, in Hamilton, Texas, to Rudolph and Adeline Riewe. On December 15, 1929, she was brought into the family of Christ through Holy Baptism at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Aleman, Texas. She reaffirmed her baptismal vows on the day of her confirmation in 1943. Throughout her life, Leanda remained a dedicated servant of Christ, living a life deeply rooted in her faith.

A Journey of Love and Service

Leanda and Edwin Barnett were united in marriage in 1952, and they shared 68 wonderful years together until his passing in 2020. After raising their family in Texas, California, and Illinois, they returned to their Texas roots in 1985 to enjoy retirement on Lake LBJ, then moving to Sun City in Georgetown in their later years.

During Leanda’s final years in Sun City, she became affectionately known as the “Sunshine Lady”. She lived out her faith by sending beautiful, hand-written cards of encouragement to neighbors facing difficult times, ensuring no one in her community felt forgotten.

Artistry and Music

A woman of immense creativity and determination, Leanda’s love for music began early; she famously saved her earnings as a waitress to purchase her very first piano. This passion for beauty extended into the visual arts, where she was admired by friends and family for her impeccable taste. She was a gifted painter and found great joy in the delicate craft of creating hand-made paper.

Family

She is survived by her children, Barbara Meese (Kirk Bergstrom), Bernice Klingberg (Casey Klingberg), and Beverly Barnett (Greg Newlon); and her sister, Marilyn Kleen (Charles Kleen). Her legacy lives on through her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Louis, Olaf, Harold and Martin, and her beloved husband, Edwin.

The Hope of the Resurrection

"I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live." (John 11:25)

We take comfort in the knowledge that Leanda is now in the presence of her Savior, awaiting the day of the resurrection of all flesh.