Memorial Service
Friday, June 28, 2024|Visitation: 10:00 a.m.| Service: 11:00 a.m.|
Howell Funeral Home Chapel| 10220 Guilford Road | Jessup, MD 20794
Celebration of Life Live-streaming Link
The Obituary
Anyika R. Barnes, a bright and vibrant soul, born in Baton Rouge, LA. on February 13, 1983 passed away on June 7, 2024 in Gaithersburg, MD. at the age of 41 leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter and memories that will be cherished by all who knew her.
Anyika is survived by her mother; Jacqueline Barnes-Newsome (Larry), father Carol Barnes, siblings; Prentiss Barnes (deceased), Stevie Burton, Tracee Belton, Jessica Newsome Potts (Christopher), Mearaph Barnes, Samuel Barnes, Seneca Barnes. Aunts and Uncles; Marcellene Wingard (Levi), Sherman Jones (Deirdre), Martha Taylor (Lonnie), Gloria Bolin (Billie, Sr.), Lucille Dent (Travis, Sr.), Josephine Heidelberg (Gregory, Sr.), Annie Abram Lukaitis (Joseph), Hazel Conway and a host of loving cousins (many like siblings) and friends.
Raised in the spiritual community, Anyika accepted Christ and was baptized at Mount Calvary Baptist Church in Rockville, MD. where she served as a Junior Usher and attended Sunday School. As an adult she continued to nurture her faith at The Church of the Redeemer. She attended Montgomery County, MD schools participating in Marching Band, Girls Basketball Team, theater groups and the National Honor Society. She graduated from The Bullis School in Potomac, MD in 2000. Her academic pursuits took her to the University of Pennsylvania where she earned a degree in Engineering and Applied Science in 2004. She was inducted into Hexagon, a senior honor society and enjoyed many extra-curricular activities, including the African American Arts Alliance (4A). She was a member of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). During her career she was employed by LCG Systems, Deloitte, Digital Infusions and Essex/Emmes.
As a sports enthusiast, she not only enjoyed watching all sports but was a championship participant. Anyika’s love for basketball was evident in her dedication to AAU basketball, where she was a leader on and off the court. She was a member of the Bullis Girl’s Varsity Basketball Team and a team captain. Her competitive spirit and natural leadership abilities earned her the respect of her teammates and opponents alike. She played all positions in basketball, specializing in point guard and shooting guard. She was known for shooting the three-point shot off the dribble. One of the coaches called her “the coach on the floor”. For five years Anyika played AAU travel basketball. Their Classics team placed 1st, 2nd twice, and 5th nationally during that time. She also played softball, ran cross country and was known to play quarterback during powder puff college games. She loved music, played the clarinet and piano and was interested in music production.
Anyika was surrounded by a loving family and a wide circle of friends who were touched by her warmth and generosity. Her love for travel, reading and sharing family stories brought joy and laughter to all who knew her. Though Anyika is no longer with us, her memory will live on through the countless lives she touched and the love she shared with those around her.
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