Immanuel Emann Barnes, age 18, of DeKalb, IL, passed away on November 25th, 2025.

Born on December 18th, 2006, at Kishwaukee Hospital, to Anthony Barnes and Dr. Erica Wade-Ball.

Immanuel was a beloved son and brother whose bright spirit and beautiful personality touched everyone who had the privilege to know him.

Immanuel graduated from DeKalb High School in May 2025, and followed his sisters’ paths in joining Madrigals, A Cappella, and Varsity Choir. He also played Dumbledore, Manny and various other roles in DeKalb High School productions.

Immanuel planned to attend Kishwaukee Community College to explore his interests and discover the direction that felt true to him. He had a special affection for dogs, which sparked his passion for pursuing veterinary medicine as a future career path.

His family will remember him for his thoughtfulness, easy-going demeanor, witty sense of humor, and beautiful singing voice. He also enjoyed playing with his dogs, Mimi and Gogo, cooking, reading, playing video games, and art.

Immanuel is survived by: His father, Anthony, and his children Elliott Suber, Jasmine Hunter, Toni Barnes, and his aunts, Diana and Janet Barnes. His mother, Dr. Erica (Zachary) Wade-Ball, and her children, Dr. Ayanna (Benjamin) Blickhan and Khadijah Williams; bonus sisters Jean (Demarion) Gilmore and Reaghan and Reyenne Ball. His grandparents, Leandrew (Brenda) Wade Jr, his uncle Leandrew Wade III, Aunt Marlon (Aladaius) Mahone, Aunt Paula Baker, Great Aunt Carolyn (Glenn) Hausenfleck, Great Aunt Esther (James) Hill, and Great Aunt Dr. Sylvia (Charles) Ramsey. He will also be greatly missed by his two nieces, cousins, other relatives, and friends. 

Immanuel was preceded in death by: Aunt Monique Barnes, grandmother Ethel Barnes, grandmother Mary Wade, great grandparents Leandrew Wade Sr and Rosie Wade, his great uncle Marshall Wade, his great Aunt Mary Sams, great uncle Crawford Sams , and great aunt Catherine Draper. 

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 12:00 pm until time of sharing of remembrances at 2:00 p.m., at Anderson Funeral Home, 2011 S 4th St, DeKalb, IL 60115

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Barnes Family in care of Anderson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 605, 2011 South Fourth Street, DeKalb, IL 60115.

Immanuel’s memory will forever be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

 

A note from Heaven

If I could write from Heaven,

This is what I’d say, 

Please don’t miss me too much, 

I’m with you throughout your day, 

You may not see or hear me, 

But if you’re quiet and still, 

You may just feel my presence;

Because in Heaven, there is free will, 

Don’t worry for the day,

It will come and go as planned,

Enjoy each moment you are given,

Keep worry from your hand,

Keep sorrow to a minimum;

For if Heaven you could see,

You’d know I’m safe and happy, 

I did not cease to be, 

Moments in time are brief,

Until we are together again, 

As Eternity lasts forever,

Our lives, they have to end. 

How about That!