Amos Socrates Barnes

Amos Socrates Barnes, affectionately known to many as “Nick,” was born on July 7, 1951, in Johnston County, 

North Carolina, to  Cora Barnes and the late Onslow Watson. Nick received his early education in the Johnston County Public School System, 

attending Harrison School. He later graduated from Maggie L. Walker High School in Richmond, Virginia.

For many years, Nick was employed at VCU Hospital, where he dedicated much of his working career. He was also a devoted 

Mason and a member of Sandhill Lodge #14 in North Carolina. Nick enjoyed sports and was a devoted Philadelphia Eagles fan. 

He also enjoyed watching women’s basketball and Westerns. In his free time, Nick loved dancing, having a good time, and simply 

enjoying life. Nick was preceded in death by his father, Onslow Watson; two brothers, Clifton Barnes and Jesse Sneed; 

and his grandmother, Merty Barnes.

He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Angela Barnes Martin; two grandchildren, Dominique Covington and Janayia 

Martin; his mother, Cora Barnes Sneed; his sisters, Carolyn Davis and Anthonia Curtis; his brother, Bobby Sneed; his favorite 

cousins, Donald Howard and Teresa McMillan, affectionately known as “Crazy Horse”; and a host of loving nieces, nephews,

cousins, extended family members, and friends. Nick’s memory will live on through the family and friends who knew him, and he 

will be greatly  missed.