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Please watch this film: Devin Henry Barnes
On Monday night after Devin’s death, I flew home incredibly depressed after crying all day. I didn’t understand why he was chosen to go. Why not me? I had the scooter accident first, before him, on the same night. I really wish that one of my bones was broken, so that Devin would have stayed with me and Chip Hardy, and hauled me to a local hospital.
I couldn’t delete Devin’s e-mail address from the ASL EXPO account. I couldn’t remove his videophone number from my list. I couldn’t erase his messages from my pager or my Outlook program. I want to leave them with me because I miss him so much.
Devin was a source of strength, inspiration and unwavering friendship for me and many people. I have always looked up to Devin as a comedian and a true warrior who preserved ASL in the sign language community. When he worked for ASL EXPO, I admired Devin’s brilliant mind. He effortlessly absorbed culture, comedy and history and adapted them into his own kind-hearted, and quirky life-perspective.
Devin was an intellectual, but I always felt he was happiest when he was able to translate his ideas into positive action. To me, the best example of this was Devin’s love for sign communication, deaf education, sports and history.
On the day before the accident, Devin, Chip and I were stressed with countless errands for ASL EXPO and decided to rent scooters for a break. While riding around the town of St. Augustine, we went everywhere nonstop -- the lighthouse, historical sites, Florida School for the Deaf, and the bridges. Chip and I had never before seen Devin's full smile, comedy and energy constantly for 10 hours. That was true freedom.
People are lucky to have some true friends in life – Devin was mine. He was also the best friend of so many of us in this community, which is extraordinary. He was the essence of a devoted husband and was a loving father of two beautiful sons.
I take some support in the knowledge that Devin will continue to influence the world as we hold onto memories of his generosity, courage, convictions and his commitment to positive action.
Devin has done so much touching so many people’s hearts. He is going to be missed deeply, forever.
Please take a moment to watch one of his favorite videos:
http://www.aslexpo.com/video/prizes2007.wmv
We miss you, buddy. We will see you soon, Devin Henry Barnes.
James Kittell
ASL EXPO
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