Submit a PhotoOn March 10, of 1974 the world was blessed with Rebecca Ann Barnett, a brilliant Sunflower in a field of roses, born in Phoenix Arizona, whom after dedicating over 25 years of her life as a patient advocate and shining her light on the lives of others, unexpectedly passed away on Wednesday, April 26th of 2023, at the early age of 49, in her home in Gilbert Arizona, after battling complications with breast cancer and other health conditions. The fragrant assortment of petals of her life included being a cherished wife to Ernie Amador, a devoted mother to her son David Qualls, a loving stepmother to her stepchildren Jacob Amador and Mellany Lopez, and daughter to Bruce Barnett and predeceased Cheryl Barnett.
The colors of her alacritous nature and compassion extended to her colleagues, patients, and family members alike, unconstrained and permanently adorning the memories of others. Starting at a young age and working multiple jobs to support her family, her career began to bloom and evolve in the direction of helping others. Inspired by her mother, Cheryl’s, nursing career, she began working in specialty pharmacies, to increase the availability and accessibility for medications and services for the HIV community. During her time in the pharmacy, in the isle 5 candy section, she met her smitten future husband. From that point forward, she pursued higher points of education, first acquiring her nursing certificate from Gateway, followed by her bachelor’s in business from Western International University, which inspired her to further acquire her master’s degree in Health in Law at Hofra University, which subsequently culminated into her pursuing a master’s degree in Psychology at Pepperdine University, all while maintaining a near perfect grade point average at all institutions and acquiring several academic and professional accolades. When asked, she explained she earned all of these degrees with the ultimate intention of using each skillset to help underrepresented, vulnerable, and underserved patients as a patient advocate. Even throughout her diagnosis, she continued fighting for the wellbeing of others, unwavering in her dedication and commitment.
In addition to her professional and academic career Rebecca enjoyed genealogy, photography, live theater, animal keeping/adoption, road tripping, cooking, reading, learning, visiting the Phoenix Zoo/Zoo Lights, playing board games cinema, spending time with friends and loved ones, and was a food enthusiast. She believed in Buddhist philosophies, particularly karma, especially towards those who deserved it.
Rebecca was known for putting the needs of others way ahead of her own. She was involved in several charities for HIV, Oncology, Mental Health, Multiple Sclerosis, the American Liver Foundation, Animal Rescue, the Phoenix Zoo, etc. The family asks that those who wish to make any contributions in her honor, in lieu of flowers, instead donate to any of the aforementioned charities in her name.
The celebration of her life will take place May 12th, 2023, at 11:00 A.M. at Gilbert Memorial Park, followed by a reception at 12:00 P.M, and will additionally take place online for those unable to attend in person. We appreciate everyone who is able to partake in the celebration of Rebecca’s wonderful life.
Print Obituary
Service Location
We are so sad to hear of Rebecca’s passing. Even though we had just got to know her through our family reunions.. you could tell she was a special and unique woman. May she rest in Gods hands. Prayers to the family.
She was a wonderful woman and great friend. I am going to miss her. She took wonderful care my peanut. We miss you so much. I love you my best friend.
I can’t believe what I’m reading I’m so sorry to hear this please accept my deepest condolences
I am deeply saddened by Rebecca’s passing. She was a bright light and a beautiful person who had a great impact on many communities and lives. God bless her and her family. My heart goes out to them.
I was honored to served as Becky’s Principal at Sierra Vista School. She always stood out as a unique soul and we reconnected a few years ago. I truly admire her courageous struggles from her youth and love of learning to help others until her passing. Becky, thank you for your genuine life and and allowing me to be a part of your time in this earth. Until we meet again, Un gran abrazo 💔Paz y amor
News of Rebecca’s death shocked us all. She was a cherished colleague and member of our Ethics Committee. Her wit and wisdom will be sorely missed. Our hearts go out to her husband, her friends, family and clients. We shared a deep love of all creatures and so made a donation to Animal Rescue in her memory. Heidi B. Kummer & Danielle Marshall on behalf of all of us at the Patient Advocate Certification Board
My most sincere condolences to Rebecca’s family and dear friends. My heart is especially full of love for her son David and his fiancé Lindsay. Remember always that your precious mother loved you with all of her heart and she will surround you every day with her loving spirit encouraging you to live your life to its fullest and to make your wildest dreams come true. God Bless and Warm hugs.
My time with Rebecca was much to brief. We shared a week long road trip to see Utah parks, she drove. Together we enjoyed sharing dinners a discussing Buddhist philosophy. She gave me a Buddha that I will cherish forever. Her wise and generous soul are missed.