By: Michelle LaGuerre
Rome, NY — The Mohawk Valley community mourns the passing of Florence Viola Miles
Barnett, a pioneering educator, civic leader, and advocate, who died on December 23, 2025, at Rome Health in Rome, New York. She was 81.
Florence Barnett made history as the first African American principal in the Rome City School District, serving with distinction at Fort Stanwix Elementary School and Bellamy Elementary School. Known for her firm yet compassionate leadership, she was a trusted listener, mentor, and role model to generations of students, families, teachers, and administrators. Her presence in the schools set a standard of excellence, fairness, and dignity that continues to resonate throughout the district.
Born in Buffalo, New York, Mrs. Barnett was a graduate of Bennett High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree from SUNY Fredonia and later completed her master’s degree at Syracuse University. Her lifelong commitment to education and equity defined both her professional career and her community service.
In addition to her educational leadership, Florence Barnett was appointed by the late Mayor
Joseph Fusco to serve as Commissioner of Civil Service for the City of Rome, further solidifying her legacy as a trusted public servant and advocate for fair and ethical governance. Mrs. Barnett was deeply engaged in community and faith-based service. She was a devoted member of Mount Calvary Baptist Church in Rome, where she served as president of the usher board, a choir member, and a missionary. Her extensive civic involvement included membership in the NAACP, the Afro-American Heritage Association, the Oneida County Community Action Board of Directors, the Rome Community Action Head Start Board of Directors (former president), the Rome Memorial Hospital Board of Directors, Rome Twigs, the Rome Teachers Association, the Rome Administrative Association (former president), and the New York State Retired Teachers Association.
She was also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, serving as a charter member and former president of the Nu Psi Omega Chapter, where she championed service, scholarship, and leadership throughout the Mohawk Valley.
Despite her many professional and civic achievements, Florence Barnett often said her greatest accomplishment was her family. Her work in education and advocacy was driven by a deep desire to create opportunities and a brighter future for generations to come.
Calling hours will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Strong-BurnsSprock Funeral Home, 7751 Merrick Road, Rome, NY. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 4:00 p.m., officiated by Rev. Tommy Ray Jackson and Elder Patricia Brown. Florence Viola Barnett’s legacy as a trailblazer, mentor, and servant-leader will forever remain a vital part of Rome’s history and the Mohawk Valley’s collective memory.
