Theodore Matthew Barna, 97, died suddenly on March 26, 2008 in Houston, TX. He was born September 24, 1910 in Port Reading, N.J., son of Andrew Barna and Anna Deliman Barna. He was a graduate of Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pa. In 1935, he married Dorothy Ruth Taylor. They celebrated 72 years of marriage in 2007. They had 5 children, 14 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

He was a laboratory chemist throughout his career from the 1940's to the 1970's, primarily with Diamond Alkali Co. and Diamond Shamrock. After retiring he gave thousands of hours as a volunteer at M.D. Anderson's research facilities. He also volunteered at the International Seamen's Center, at the Casa de Esperanza de los Ninos, as a literacy tutor for dozens of children in his neighborhood schools, and as a supporter of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church. He was an avid gardener and fisherman, who was beloved by his children, grandchildren, great- grandchildren, and countless friends who valued the example of his kind and gentle spirit.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy, in June, 2007; and his son, Christopher, in April 1986.

He is survived by his sister, Irene Van Tassel, of South Amboy, N.J. and by daughter Trudy Barna-Lloyd and her husband, John Barna-Lloyd; daughter Joan Barna Marik; son, Theodore Keith Barna and his wife, Mary Margaret Mullen Barna; son, Joel Warren Barna and his wife Laura Furman; and daughter-in-law Parry Barna Camp; along with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 4:30 P.M., Thursday, March 27, 2008 at Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home, 6700 Ferris St. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 A.M., Friday, March 28, 2008 at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 6800 Buffalo Speedway