Eden Prairie, MN - Becky Lynn (Larson) Barnes, 75, of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, passed away peacefully of natural causes on December 8, 2025. A devoted mother, Becky's warmth, humor, and compassion touched all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Born on April 19, 1950, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Becky was the daughter of Harvey and Loris Larson. She grew up in a close-knit family with her siblings; older brother Donavon, and younger sister Angie. A proud graduate of Osseo Senior High School, class of 1968, Becky served as the yearbook editor, a role that showcased her eye for detail and love of words.

After high school, she attended Hamline University, where she met Robert Lee Barnes. The two began their life together in St. Paul, raising a family of four children: Jilleen (Jill), Jerod, Jason, and Jonathan (Jon).

Becky stayed home to raise her kids during their formative years. She was very proud to be a mother to her four children. Her kids were involved in numerous activities including church, sports, music, and academic pursuits. She often had to be in multiple places at once. Church and music activities participation were non-negotiables for her children. While they may not have understood the importance of Christian faith and love of music in her children's younger years, both were a gift that she gave to them that they realized more and more as they got older.

Once her youngest (Jon) was in school, Becky returned to school to pursue her bachelor's degree and later earned her Master's in Social Work from St. Catherine University. Professionally, Becky was deeply committed to serving others—as a social worker for Hennepin County, particularly advocating for individuals experiencing mental illness and homelessness in Minneapolis.

In September of 2000, her family experienced a life altering event. The death of their youngest child Jonathan by suicide. It changed Becky in a deep and life altering way. The years after Jon died were full of struggle. She spent those years trying to find connection and meaning in any way possible.

In her personal life, Becky found joy in connecting with others, especially those who, like her, had endured the loss of a child. Her compassion became a source of strength for many. She made an impact on many in the community because of her empathy, warmth, and strength.

In later years, she unexpectedly became a passionate sports fan, cheering on the Twins, Vikings, Wild, and Timberwolves — but none more than her beloved Minnesota Lynx. She loved the Minnesota Lynx and all things involving women's sports.

Becky is survived by her sister, Angie (Larson) Johnson; her children, Jill, Jerod, Jason and daughter-in-law Kristi; four grandchildren, Hannah, Daniel, David, and Zach; along with extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Donavon, and son Jon.

Becky's wishes were for no formal service, but instead for people to share a smile and hug with a loved one. And to especially seek out a hug from a social worker and/or nurse. They are angels walking among us.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital Hospice Program, 6500 Excelsior Boulevard, Saint Louis Park, MN 55426. Becky will be cremated, and her ashes will rest with Jon.

"Revelation 21:4 — And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away."