Candace Barnette Hyde

Candace Barnette Hyde passed away peacefully at her home on December 14, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on July 20, 1972, in Green Creek, North Carolina. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carolyn and Charlie Wayne, and her brother, Darren. Candace lived a life marked by faith, devotion, curiosity, and a deep love for her family.

Candace’s greatest joy, and her proudest achievement, was her family. She is survived by her husband, Sean, and their two sons, Ian and JC, all of whom were the very center of her world. Becoming a mother transformed her life, and she embraced that role with humility, humor, and fierce love. She made intentional choices to be present for her sons, choices rooted in the desire to give them stability, encouragement, and joy. From snacks waiting after school, to countless hikes, zoo trips, orchestra concerts, and track meets, Candace showed her sons through action that they were deeply loved and fully supported.

She delighted in the men Ian and JC became, not only in their academic accomplishments, but in their kindness, curiosity, discipline, and integrity. She admired their passions, encouraged their independence, and never stopped cheering them on. Above all, she wanted them to know that they were loved beyond measure.

Candace was thoughtful, intelligent, and endlessly curious. She loved learning for learning’s sake! She was constantly studying history, literature, politics, and the natural world, all of which held her attention. A lifelong reader, she found joy in stories about humanity, justice, faith, and perseverance. Her conversations reflected that depth as she listened carefully and sought to understand rather than judge.

In many ways, her curiosity mirrored that of the cats she loved so dearly, being attentive, observant, and drawn to the small details others might overlook. Her love for animals ran deep, and she found joy in connecting with them.

She also possessed a quiet wit and a dry sense of humor that revealed itself in certain remarks and gentle laughter. She enjoyed puzzles, board games, and the simple pleasure of spending time with those she loved. The outdoors held special meaning for her, particularly the North Carolina hills of her childhood and the mountains she cherished throughout her life. Gardening, hiking, and canning fruits and vegetables were acts of both joy and love, the ways she nurtured others in tangible, lasting ways.

Professionally, Candace was a dedicated Certified Public Accountant, known for her integrity, diligence, and generosity of spirit. Her work in the business office at St. Mary’s of the Knobs Church reflected not only her skill but her service. She gave her time, talent, and heart freely, supporting the church and school community with humility and faith. Her friends and church family will remember her not only for what she did, but for how she did it, with kindness, discretion, and deep commitment.

Candace was a faithful member of St. Mary’s of the Knobs Church, where her faith guided her life and shaped her values. Her belief was steady and lived out quietly through service, compassion, and trust. Scripture anchored her hope, including the promise she held close: “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they will die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” ~John 11:25-26

Candace lived a life rooted in kindness. She noticed people, listened deeply, and loved generously. Whether sharing a quiet moment with a friend, supporting her husband and sons, or serving behind the scenes, she made others feel seen and valued. Her legacy is one of faith, gentleness, curiosity, and steadfast love, a legacy that will continue through the lives she touched most deeply.

Visitation will be from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday, December 19, 2025 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany). Visitation will continue on Saturday, December 20, 2025 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at St. Mary of the Knobs Catholic Church (5719 St Marys Rd, Floyds Knobs). Her Funeral Mass will follow at the church on Saturday, at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Candace’s memory can be made to the American Cancer Society (1640 Lyndon Farm Court, Suite 104, Louisville, KY 40223) or the Norton Cancer Institute (676 South Floyd Street, Louisville, KY 40202).

Please consider sharing a memory of Candace or leaving a special message for the family by completing the online Guestbook below.