Barbara J. deWeever

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara Jennifer de Weever, who left this world on March 27, 2025, at the age of 88.

Born on August 28, 1936, in Golden Fleece, British Guiana (presently Guyana), she was the cherished daughter of Guy Egbert Leon de Weever and Irmin Evelyn de Weever (née Bryce). Barbara immigrated to the United Stated in 1954, where after graduating from Brooklyn College of the City University of New York with honors, she became a dedicated registered nurse specializing in neonatal and private duty care. In 1957 she married Oscar Aubrey Baynes, from Georgetown, British Guyana, and together they had six beloved children.

In 1973 the family made their new home in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where Barbara continued her nursing career. Soon after, she made a determination to change careers, and proudly graduated with honors from the University of New Mexico. She later pursued her legal education at UNM Law School, earning her Juris Doctorate. In 1983, Barbara found love again with William McKinstry. Her passion for justice and equality propelled her career as an Assistant District Attorney in Albuquerque and later as an Assistant City Attorney for the City of Santa Fe, from which she eventually retired.

A devoted community leader, Barbara served on numerous boards, including Open Hands and Leadership Santa Fe. She was a former member of the NM Black Lawyers Association and the Daughters of the British Empire.

Barbara’s love for classical music, opera, calypso, and Guyanese folk music reflected her vibrant spirit. Known for her ethics, intelligence, generosity, and kindness, she was a lifelong Democrat and actively contributed to various political campaigns, serving as a delegate at the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

Barbara is preceded in death by her father, Guy Egbert Leon de Weever; her mother, Irmin Evelyn de Weever; her brother, Godfrey de Weever; and her son, Christopher Cedric Bayne, of Santa Fe. She is survived by her loving husband, William McKinstry, of Santa Fe, NM; her sister, Dr. Jacqueline de Weever, of Brooklyn, NY; and Joseph Permaul, of Toronto, Canada. She leaves behind her children: Jennifer Bayne, Dr. Gillian Bayne (Brooklyn, NY), Gregory Bayne (Santa Fe, NM), Guy Bayne (Albuquerque, NM), Carolyn Bayne (Albuquerque, NM), and stepchildren Juliana Josey, Michael McKinstry, and Kerry McKinstry. Her grandchildren, Jamilah McDaniel, (Santa Fe), Samir Morrow, (Albuquerque), Ethan Andrews, (Brooklyn), Sade Morrow (Albuquerque), Brandon McKinstry, Tatiana McKinstry, and her daughter Naomi, along with her great-grandson, Kyrie Bentz, will carry her strong legacy forward. A service to honor Barbara will be held on April 17 at 2 PM at Rivera Family Funerals and Cremations, located at 417 Rodeo Rd, Santa Fe, NM. Barbara de Weever touched countless lives with her compassion and unwavering commitment to helping others. She will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.