In Memoriam: Carolyn A. Jones-Barnes

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of ATPAM Manager Carolyn A. Jones-Barnes on Friday, June 6, 2025. Carolyne was 88 years old at the time of her passing.

Carolyne was a long time member of ATPAM coming into membership in April of 1973. She began as a Company Manager of shows such as GOOD, THE DRESSER AND BUBBLING BROWN SUGAR. Carolyne also did her time as a Road Company Manager, her last show being SING, MAHALIA, SING. Shortly after leaving that show, she was hired by the Shubert Organization as a Theater Manager. While the Shubert Organization lists her first Shubert theater as the Golden, I am told that the Longacre was her first home at Shubert (she had previously worked for Jujamcyn during the run of BARNUM). The Golden, however, was her home for many years and as I said to her husband of 44 years, Local One member Kendall (Ken) Barnes, her years of service at the Shubert Organization meant that she impacted the lives of millions of audience members who, while they might not have been aware of it, entered her “home” to be entertained for a few hours.

Carolyne was known as “Miss Jones” or “Mother Jones” to her beloved co-workers and friends. ATPAM Theater Manager Hugh Barnett, a close friend and colleague, noted that "she could be curt in speech, steely in her decisions and yet was a constant, caring and devoted friend to generations of people she nurtured” during her time in the Broadway Community. More than one manager has called her a "mentor "– and those are only the ones who have reached out to me, I am sure there are many more. Hugh also noted that Carolyne ‘s purse revealed the “essential Mother Jones”, part first aid kit, part hardware store, part five and dime and part notions, prepared for any event she was.

ATPAM Theater Manager Howard Rogut noted that he had replaced her at the St. James, and “ she could not have been more welcoming and helpful, she indeed was a gifted and respected ATPAM sister who will be missed by all."

There will be viewing for those who wish to attend on Wednesday, June 11th & Thursday, June 12th.  Times will be 2 - 7 on both days at Riverside Memorial Chapel located at 76th Street and Amsterdam Avenue. 

May Carolyne's memory be a blessing.