Montez Miriam Barnes, was born on March 27, 1958 in Sarasota, Florida to the late James and Helen Byrd. Montez was affectionately known to many as "Tessie".

Tessie, was born and raised in Sarasota, Florida. Tessie, moved to Miami, Fl with her family in 1974. Tessie, attended Miami Carol City Senior High School in Miami, Florida.  She later met and married the love of her life Daniel Barnes Jr. AKA "Man". The two were united in Holy Matrimony on December 14, 1978. To this union three sons were born, Daniel III, Travis, and Brandon Barnes. Man preceded Tessie in death on May 9, 2010. On November 14, 2016, Tessie was blessed with her forth son, Joshua Barnes.

Tessie, became a proud Grandmother to twins Daniel IV and Danielle Barnes on January 11, 2010. In 2013, Tessie was blessed with a third Grandchild Dylan Barnes.

Tessie, joined Antioch Missionary Baptist church in 2008. Tessie, was employed with Alliance Entertainment, for nearly 20 years. After retirement Tessie became the caretaker to her grandchildren, nieces, nephews and even friends children.  She was always willing to lend a helping hand. Wherever and whenever Tessie was needed she was there. Tessie, was a family person. She loved her family. She loved spending quality time with her family. She was the life of the party. She was always smiling and joking. She would often greet you by affectionately saying "Hey Boo".  Tessie always had a smile on her face. Tessie, was a mother figure and favorite Aunt to many.  Tessie, was a kind and fun loving person. She was a confidant. She was easy to talk to and a great listener. She was nonjudgmental.

On September 1, 2021, Tessie passed away peacefully at home. On September 23, 2021, her son Travis passed away in Pembroke Pines, Florida. Tessie, leaves to cherish her memories: Her loving sons, Daniel Barnes III, Brandon Barnes and Joshua Barnes. One Daughter- in- Law Melba Barnes. One granddaughter, Danielle Barnes. Two grandsons Daniel IV and Dylan. Three sisters, Anna Wilson of Miami, Florida, Margaret Linda Lewis and Carolyn Sanders, Both of Sarasota, Florida. One brother, Harold Byrd of Texas. One Sister- in-Law Vera Blackshear of Miami, Florida. One Brother-in-law George Barnes of Miami, Florida. A host of loving nieces, nephews and cousins.