On Tuesday, January 30, 2024, Jude (David) Edward Barkemeyer passed away unexpectedly at age 24. Jude was kind and empathetic, the kind of person who would give you the shirt off their back. Jude was passionate about, and actively involved in, many causes, including LGBTQ rights and safety, abortion rights, and freeing Palestine. Jude frequently helped anyone they could, to the point that, despite not being a smoker, they would carry around a pack of cigarettes in case anyone in need asked for a smoke.
Jude cared about their work and the people they served, making a truly positive impact in the community. Jude assisted adults with diminished mental capabilities, and they truly cared about and wanted the best for each of their individuals. In addition to being active in the community, Jude loved playing video and board games with friends and family, going to live shows and moshing, hanging out with Johnny (cat), and binging their favorite shows. Jude's compassionate, giving, and hilarious personality made them a light in every life they touched, and they will be sorely missed. Jude is predeceased by their sister Amelia Melancon and survived by their mother and father, Karrin and Joshua Barkemeyer, siblings Martina Sherman, Ana Styne, Brendaleigh Fontanez, Hannah Barkemeyer Baker, Mehki Fontanez, Aiden Franklin, Berlyn Barkemeyer, and Aurora Barkemeyer, niece Essence Medeiros, and countless friends.
Jude's memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, February 10th, 2024 from 2-6 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. There will be a celebration of life at The Bar at 266 Dartmouth St., New Bedford after the visitation.