- Date Of Death: July 20, 2015
- State: Indiana
Cleo (Madden) Barnett was born on March 9, 1928 to her parents Reverend William and Nellie Madden who preceded her in death. Cleo was born to a large family of 11 siblings, all of whom have also preceded her in death.
Cleo has live in Indianapolis all of her life and was a graduate of Crispus Attucks High School and the Madame C. J. Walker Beauty School. She was married in 1947 to Reverend Carl H. Barnett, Sr. Four children were the product of their union.
One of Cleo’s favorite songs was “If I Can Help Somebody”. The words to the song were a testament of her life.
Politics played a key part of Cleo’s life. For the majority of her working career, she was assistant to former mayors Richard Lugar and Mayor William H. Hudnut , III.
She worked closely within the community when the Indianapolis Model Cities Program was formulated. Under former Indianapolis Mayor William H.
Cleo accepted Christ at an early age of her life. Her life in Christ did not take second place. Her dedication to serve others was not limited to nor inspired by politics. As a woman of faith, she has been an active member of St.
Cleo loved her family and was their chief supporter and guide. Just as with her family, she always strived to lead all young people morally and spiritually. She did not hesitate to pull someone aside to give advice or to suggest a better way. Young people were always her passion and she had no fear of letting them know when they were not action in a “God-like “manner.
Mrs. Cleo Barnett leaves behind to mourn her death; Lillie Evans, Re. Carl Barnett, Jr. (Barbara), Nelvia Rent (Charles), and Robert Barnett (Ella), seven grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.
