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Ethel Fortune Barksdale received her wings on Wednesday, March 23, 2022. She was preceded in death by her sister; Gracie Brooks; her brothers, William Clarence Fortune, James Leonard Fortune and a nephew; Charles Lindburgh Burton.

On January 14, 1947, she was born in Louisa, Virginia to the late John and Annie Fortune.  She attended Louisa Public School (the historic AG Richardson) and went on to complete her education at Jefferson Professional Institute. She married James Malcom Barksdale and from that union she had two daughters, Ivanov(Shelly) and Javanov(Christy).

Ethel Barksdale began her faith journey at an early age as a member of Galilee Baptist Church.  Until her health declined, she was on the Usher Board and a member of the Gospel Chorus. After 38 years of service, she retired from Charlottesville City Public Schools and later returned for 10 more years part-time as a Custodial Services Sub- Coordinator. She was also employed part-time at JCPenney's and retired after 20 years of service there.

Her love and faith in God were instrumental in giving her the strength, patience, and perseverance to endure her illnesses. She leaves a legacy of love and faith in God, hard work, commitment, and the importance of education.  She was always available to help where needed, offering a smile and words of encouragement. Ethel strongly believed it takes a village to raise a child. The memories of her strong support and love of her family will remain forever.

She leaves cherished memories to her daughters, Ivanov Sanders-Hardy (Darryl), Javanov Barksdale-White (Chad); grandchildren, Brittany Thornton (George), Meyah Barksdale-Carter, Haley Hardy, Chazz Barksdale-White; great grandchildren, Branson Hayes, Jordyn Thornton and soon to be born, Zara Thornton; sisters; Susie Fortune-Divers (John) and Denise Anderson; nieces and nephews, Doris Burton-Miller, Tracy Grooms-Key, Kenya Holland, Clarence Leroy Fortune (Bessie), Carlos Anderson (Towanda), Kenneth Anderson; great nieces and nephews, Wendy Pittman, Charles Burton, Aaryn Grooms Key, Tzeira Ginn (Allen), Clarence Fortune Jr., Kareem Taylor, Carlos Anderson Jr., Takiyah Anderson and a host of other loved relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Friday, April 1, 2022 in The Sun Chapel at D. D. Watson, Louisa with Elder Ruben Lewis, Jr., officiating. Interment will follow in the Galilee Baptist Church Cemetery at Frencliff.