Now, somewhat on the same topic, here's a question thrown out to our fantastic general audience. Dan Curtis originally wanted to do a "direct" sequel to HoDS where Barnabas returns but the concept was ended when Mr. Frid refused to reprise the role. If it had gone forward, what would've happened? Most of the original cast had been offed. All that was left of the major characters was Elizabeth, David, Maggie, Jeff and Todd. Oh, and Mrs. Johnson. There wasn't much left to build on.
In theory, Barnabas and any or all of the other vampires could have been resurrected by removing the stake from their hearts. Barnabas had limited success in trying to control Carolyn. Would he have been able to control her, Roger and Stokes? Stokes would have made a particularly cunning adversary.
Willie and Julia certainly appear to be really and sincerely dead.