Obituary of Davette Inez Barksdale

Born 3/2/1956 in Los Angeles, CA and passed away 12/23/2009 in Tacoma, WA surrounded by her loving family. Davette was born in Los Angeles, CA to Dave and Betty Jones. She was raised in Compton, CA, where she received her formal primary and secondary education. She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age as a member of Jericho Missionary Baptist Church. Having a God-given gift of music as a young girl, she served as pianist and choir director at her church. Davette also developed a talent for dressmaking, which she learned from her mother, a professional seamstress. She was also known as "daddy's girl" in the family. In 1974, following her high school graduation, Davette began studying biology at the University of California, San Diego. It was in San Diego that she began attending Jackson Memorial Church of God in Christ, where she met John Barksdale, whom she would later marry in 1979. From this union were born three children: Michael, Jason, and Angelica. Davette and her family were dedicated to the Lord and were always listening for his voice. In 1990, the Barksdales relocated to the Pacific Northwest. In 1992, they were joined to Greater Dimensions Church where she served faithfully as the minister of music. It was during Davette's time at this ministry that the Lord began to inspire original songs that were sang in worship services. In 2000, she was united with Church for All Nations and became very active in both the music and teaching ministries with her husband. Despite her failing health, she remained faithful to her call in ministry. In 2006, the Lord called Davette and John to One New Man Ministry in Renton, WA, where she received extensive training in the prophetic ministry. Davette truly loved God with her whole heart and many friends were blessed by the love of God in her life. On December 23, 2009, the Lord called Davette from a life of labor to her reward of eternal life. She will be greatly missed by all those who loved her and who received blessings from the life she lived. May the Lord bless her memory. Davette is survived by her faithful husband John; 2 sons, Michael Paul, Jason Edward; daughter, Angelica Marie Barksdale; brother, Jehue Dawson; sister, Williette Jones; 2 grandchildren, Odjkni Simmons-Barksdale, Mychaela Renee Barksdale; numerous extended family and friends. Viewing 5-8PM Wed. 12/30 at Edwards Memorial Center, 3005 Bridgeport Way W., University Place, WA. Funeral service to be held 11AM Thursday, 12/31 at Church for All Nations, Tacoma, WA. Interment to follow at 2:15PM at Tahoma National Cemetery, 18600 SE 240th St., Kent, WA 98042. Arrangements by Edwards Memorial Center 253-566-1008.