Merry Barney

Wearing blue and white striped shirt, smiling
REGION: 3 – Sunmount

Position: Direct Support Assistant

Years of Service: 35

Merry Barney was named one of the Sunmount DDSOO’s 2024 DSPs of the Year because nominators believe she has provided “total care” for 35 years.

“Merry continuously comes in ready to work and cares for people with such a sense of compassion,” says Chastity McCarty, Developmental Assistant II, and Merry’s supervisor. “She has worked many of her pass days, coming in and helping with appointments, or bringing people to special events or home visits – to name a few. Her hard work and dedication to the people she supports is truly inspiring.”

McCarty adds that Merry’s wholeheartedness and compassion sets her apart. She says that Merry cares deeply for the people she supports and often goes above and beyond for them.

“Merry makes a point to ensure people participate and celebrate their holidays and makes special dishes and meals so they can have them,” McCarty adds. “She volunteers to do a trip out of town on her days off so that people can enjoy community events and special trips. Merry keeps in touch with families of people she has cared for through the years, even though some have passed or moved.”

Kristie Duprey, DA III agrees with McCarty. “Merry does go above and beyond for the people she serves at the residence, where she has been since the doors opened in 1982. The people there are like family for Merry and she has formed lifelong relationships with the people living there and their families. Merry is not only a remarkable DSP, but she is a remarkable human who deserves recognition.”