Ariel Donielle Barnes

Please click here to view the services for Ms. Ariel Barnes on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 2pm.

Ariel Donielle Pinkney (nee Barnes), affectionately known to many as Ari, was born on June 20, 1991, in Silver Spring, MD, to her mother LaJuan M. Barnes and her father, Steven W. Barnes.  She was a reserved child who loved reading.

From an early age, Ari knew she had a passion for children and teaching.  She earned her degree in Early Childhood Education from her hometown alma mater, Bowie State University (Go Bulldogs!).  She later went on to earn a master's degree from the University of New England.

Over the course of more than a dozen years, Ari touched the lives of hundreds of young school children and their families as an elementary school teacher and reading specialist for Prince George's County Public Schools.  She adored her students and often hosted fundraisers to enhance their classroom experience.

On April 10, 2014, Ari welcomed her beloved daughter, Leira Milani, giving her a first name that was her own, written in reverse- a special reflection of their extraordinary bond.  Ari and Lei were inseparable and the very best of friends.  

In 2011, Ari met the love of her life, Kai Pinkney, while working at Texas Roadhouse restaurant.  After enlisting in the United States Army, Kai returned home and the couple later reunited.  On September 20, 2024, they celebrated their union in a beautiful purple-hued ceremony (Ari's favorite color), surrounded by family and friends.

Ari will be remembered as an amazing and devoted mother and wife, a cherished daughter and sister, a loyal friend, a gifted educator. She touched countless hearts, loved deeply, and was loved just as deeply in return.  Those who knew her are devastated by the loss of such a bright and gentle light in this world.

Ari is survived by her daughter, Leira; her husband, Kai; her mother, LaJuan; her father, Steven; her sisters, Lekiah Cobb (Maurice) and Asia Abron (Ryan); paternal grandmother, Winnifred Barnes; her nephew and niece, Khairo and Ejypt; a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins; her closest friends; and many more whose lives she touched. 

The family will receive friends on Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 12:00pm to 2:00pm at the Beall Funeral Home, 6512 NW Crain Highway, Bowie, MD 20715.  Services will follow at the funeral home at 2:00pm.

Interment will be private.