- E
Update 8/7/25:
Barner passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at home surrounded by his loving Perspectives family. Thank you to everyone who has donated, shared, and told stories/uploaded pictures of Barner. Everyone is kindly invited to a Memorial Service from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Tuesday August 12th, at The Cranston-Murphy Funeral Home of Wickford, 140 West Main Street, Wickford Village, North Kingstown, RI 02852.
A celebration of life will be forthcoming; stay tuned.
Update 7/31/25:
Thank you to everyone who has donated. Thanks to this incredible community, we have not only met but exceeded our fundraising goal. As a result, we will be closing the GoFundMe campaign.
All contributions will go directly toward cremation costs, final arrangements, and the celebration of life we will hold at a later time.
Barner is currently resting comfortably at home, surrounded by hospice care and an amazing team of Direct Support Professionals who continue to provide him with the loving care he so richly deserves.
As Barner’s status changes, I will share updates here, including details about any upcoming services or celebrations.
Any remaining funds will be donated to charities we believe would have been close to Barner’s heart.
Thank you all again for your continued love and support.
We are heartbroken to share that our beloved friend and community member, Barner Diaz, is currently on hospice care and nearing the end of his life. As we prepare to say goodbye, we are asking for your support to give Barner the send-off he deserves.
Barner is deeply loved and well known in the community. He has spent his life helping others—whether through odd jobs like cleaning and yard work, or simply offering a friendly smile while he enjoyed his signature Diet Caffeine-Free Coke with cherry flavor added in (his /favorite). He was always full of laughter, known for his playful teasing and light-hearted spirit. Barner had a way of making everyone around him feel seen, often with a grin and a quick-witted comment that made you laugh. He also held a deep respect for first responders and the military, which was close to his heart.
We are raising $3,000 to cover the costs of his cremation, urn, and a meaningful celebration of life. Any funds raised beyond the cost of cremation and funeral arrangements will go directly toward making his celebration special—a reflection of who he was and what he loved, especially those Subway sandwiches!
Time is short, and arrangements need to be made now. If you knew Barner, or if his kindness ever touched your life, we ask that you consider contributing. No amount is too small. Please help us rally together to honor Barner in the way he would have wanted.
If you have photos of Barner throughout the years to share, please upload them here:
Thank you for your support, your generosity, and for helping us celebrate the life of a truly special man.
— With gratitude,
Heather Anderson