Yvonne Barron

Yvonne McClendon Barron was born on February 23, 1937, to LeRoy and Missionary LeOra McClendon in Mt. Enterprise, Texas. Raised on a farm, her family worked as sharecroppers until they eventually became independent, allowing them to keep all of their earnings. Yvonne was the fifth of twelve children—seven daughters and five sons. 

Yvonne accepted Christ at a young age while attending New Hope C.M.E. Church in Timpson, Texas. After graduating from Concord High School, she went on to attend Texas College and, later in life, Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth. She married her high school sweetheart, William Ray Johnson of Mt. Enterprise, Texas, and embraced life as a Navy wife and devoted stay- at-home mom to their children—Arnetta, William, and Nickolas—as they moved to various Naval ports. They lived in Pensacola, Florida; Norfolk, Virginia; Lafayette, Louisiana; and Newport, Rhode Island. Yvonne took great joy in being a homemaker and caring for her children.

In 1967, Yvonne moved to Fort Worth, Texas, with her three children and soon joined Carter Metropolitan C.M.E. Church. She became the first Black garment inspector at Bogart’s Clothing and Manufacturing in the late 1960s, marking a significant achievement. Yvonne settled into her new life in Fort Worth, and in 1969, she welcomed her youngest daughter, Charnette. While she raised her older children with a firm yet loving hand, Charnette benefited from an approach that was more loving than firm. Years later, Yvonne began her teaching career with Fort Worth ISD at Kirkpatrick Elementary School, where she found great joy in working with students and teachers, forging lasting friendships. 

Yvonne was unwavering in her commitment to having her children attend Sunday school and church every week—no exceptions. Every Sunday, she and her children were present at Sunday school and church, actively participating in church activities and programs. Yvonne was a devoted member of Carter Metropolitan for over 50 years, remaining active until her health began to decline. She served faithfully as a choir member, taught Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and was an Assistant Sunday School Superintendent. She also led the Rossie T. Hollis Missionary Society for several years and assisted with the children’s Christmas and Easter programs.

On July 9, 1998, Yvonne married Samuel L. Barron and cherished their life together. Samuel was also a member of Carter Metropolitan C.M.E. Church, and the two shared a deep commitment to their faith. Yvonne retired from teaching in 2003, allowing them both to enjoy their retirement years together. They spent time traveling, nurturing their family, and honoring the Lord together, both in their personal lives and through their church community.

Yvonne was known for her grounded, straightforward wisdom, though beneath her words lay a profound faith. If you asked her how she was doing, she'd often say, "I'm doing fine, ain't no need of complaining 'cause can't nobody do anything about it," a sentiment that reflected the spirit of Psalm 121: "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth". She might also remind you, "Well, you’re not the only one," a gentle reference to Romans 3:23: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God". And if anyone asked what she was up to, she'd reply, “Oh nothing, I’m having a pajama day,” her way of embodying Exodus 33:14: "And he said, my presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest”.

On Monday, October 21, 2024, Yvonne departed this life and is now in the presence of the Lord. She was preceded in death by her husband, Samuel L. Barron; her parents, LeRoy and LeOra McClendon; her son, Nickolas Johnson; her son-in-law, Larry Johnson; her grandson, Joshua Johnson; 5 sisters, Mary Myles, Helen King, Doris Starr, Maxine McAllister and Maurine Armstead; 3 brothers, LeRoy McClendon, Ray McClendon and Jimmy Earl McClendon. 

She leaves to cherish her incredible, remarkable, and joyous memories: her son Rev. William F. Johnson (Valda); Daughters Arnetta Johnson and Charnette Lucas; Beloved bonus daughters Andrea Horton (Randall) and Lydia Dunnington (Daryl); brothers Rev. Dr. B.W. McClendon, Sr (Bernetta) and Roy McClendon (Sandra); Sister Stella Deal; Granddaughters: Courtney Davis, Rachel Booth (Ryan), Sarah Warren and Brittany Lucas. Grandsons: James Johnson (Tracy), Aaron Johnson, Jordan Johnson and Justin Johnson; Bonus grandsons: Jordan Dunnington (Stephanie), Ashton Dunnington, and Tyler Dunnington; Great-grandsons Caleb Johnson, Isaiah Johnson & River Booth; Great-grand-daughter Blythe Warren. Several nieces, nephews, and a host of other family members and friends.