Lawyer and former head of the Kingston Legal Aid Clinic Frances Jeanne Barnes has died.

She was also the mother of Jamaican-born football star John Barnes, the Liverpool legend.

The Jamaican Bar Association put out a statement that reads: “The president and council regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs Frances Jeanne Barnes. Mrs Barnes was regarded as one of the most humble and inspiring women of our profession.

“She headed the Kingston Legal Aid Clinic and served as the first legal counsel for the General Legal Council. May her soul rest in peace.”

Founder and CEO of Our Today, Al Edwards said: “Jeanie Barnes was a mercurial, fascinating and highly intelligent woman. She was and remained an avid supporter of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP). She was a patriot and sang Jamaica’s praises every opportunity she got.

“She was always so informed and engaging and was a wonderful dinner companion. She took pride in her profession as a lawyer. I recall many a great evening with both Jeanne and her husband the late Colonel Ken Barnes—both were fabulous people.

“Jeanne was very proud of John’s accomplishments in English football and the kind of man he turned out to be.

“I last saw her at a lunch she hosted at the Liguanea Club and I ended up spending the entire afternoon with her long after the other guests had left. She was absolutely delightful and will be missed.”