Katherine “Katelyn” L. Barnes Girard

Katherine “Katelyn” L. Barnes Girard, 35, passed away on March 20, 2023. She was born on February 7, 1988. She was the beloved daughter of Timothy Barnes, Nannette Sackett, and step-father Ralph Sackett. Katelyn was married to David Girard for 9 years, and they have two children together, Brooke Ann and Lucas Joseph. Katelyn is also survived by her sister, Natalie Barnes. Katelyn was a loving granddaughter of Fred and Ann Eckert (both deceased) and Ron and Betsy (deceased) Barnes. She also had three step-sisters, Carrie Rice, Aimee Busch, and Jill Jackson. Katelyn was a cherished niece of Jody, Lisa, and Ann, and godmother aunt Michele and a dear niece of Ed and Paul.

In addition, Katelyn is survived by her father-in-law, Dennis Girard, her sister-in-law, Sarah Girard, and her brothers-in-law, CJ and Matt Girard. She had a large extended family, including cousins Charles, Steven, Ella Rose, Dawn, and Bri Hammer, Dana Eckert, and Dylan and Austin Clark. Katelyn was also fortunate to have many close friends, such as Danielle and Clay Downing, Brittany and Alex Kraus, and Nikky and Prudencio Perez. She loved spending time with Katie and Eric Hardison, Pam and Bossy Hardison, and many others. Katelyn’s special cat, Bruno, was always by her side and will miss her deeply.

Katelyn was known for her kind heart and selflessness and she was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Katelyn was a competitive person who was driven to succeed, but she always put others first, she encouraged and motivated others to be the best version of themselves. Katelyn had a contagious passion for life where she was enthusiastic about her work as a teacher and volleyball coach, and she inspired her students and players to love learning and embrace their potential. She thoroughly enjoyed her role within the Strengthening Families program, where she made a positive impact on families in the community.

Katelyn was a great listener who made everyone feel heard and valued. She had a realness about her that made her relatable and approachable. She was always present in the moment, and had a way of making people feel like they were the most important person in the world. Katelyn was a true friend to all and never met a stranger, she had a unique ability to create cohesion and bonds among those she met. Her thoughtfulness and sense of humor brought joy and laughter to those around her.

Katelyn was an exceptional teacher who had a passion for teaching young children. She spent many years teaching second grade in both Craven County and Pamlico County, and she touched the lives of countless students during her career. Katelyn had a gift for creating a fun and engaging learning environment, where students felt comfortable and excited to learn. She was patient, kind, and always willing to go the extra mile to help her students succeed. Katelyn’s impact on her students was immeasurable, and she will always be remembered as a beloved teacher who made a difference in their lives.

A visitation and memorial service will be held on April 1, 2023, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Bayboro Baptist Church in Bayboro, North Carolina; 101 Main St, Bayboro, NC 28515. All are welcome to attend.

Katelyn had a love and devotion to her community. She was passionate about making a difference in the lives of others, and her legacy will be carried forward through the people she touched.

For those who wish to honor Katelyn’s memory they may make a donation to Pamlico Partnership for Children in her name.

Share memories and condolences with the family by visiting the “Tribute Wall” below.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 1535 S. 41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403 910-791-9099