of Joiner, AR

October 5, 1938 - December 29, 2024

James Edward Barnes, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 29, 2024 at the age of 86. He was born on October 5, 1938 in Gary, Indiana to Jimmy and Willie Mae Barnes.

James proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army before returning home to build a life defined by devotion, hard work and generosity. He was a faithful member of First Baptist Church in Joiner, Arkansas where he cherished singing in the choir until his health no longer allowed. In his earlier years, James volunteered to drive the church van, helped maintain the church grounds and was always ready to assist with renovations and other church projects.

After over 40 years of dedicated service at Kelly Service Station, James retired and pursued farming. Though he eventually retired from farming as well, his family and friends would say he never truly stopped working. His tireless energy, determination and work ethic were admired by all who knew him.

James was a devoted husband to his wife, Barbara Barnes, with whom he celebrated 51 years of marriage. He was the loving father of Beveline (Ricky) Wilson, Mikel (Simone) Jones, James Edward Barnes Jr., Jackie Ray Graves and Terry Bonds. Together, James and Barbara also opened their hearts and home to five additional children, raising them as their own: Carla (Ray) Newberry, April (Laveil) Rucker, L.C. Kennedy Jr., Nina Kennedy and LaShuna Jones.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Jimmy and Willie Mae Barnes; his brothers, George Jones, William Barnes, Ervin Wiley, Norman Wiley, Larry Joe Wiley, Leroy Jackson and brother-in-law, Chester Morris; as well as his sisters, Nina Brunson, Claudia Walker, Nylon Barlow and sister-in-law, Beulah Lee Morris.

He is survived by his brothers-in-law, Earnest (Deloris) Morris, Craig (Janet) Morris and Larry Morris; his sisters, Lucille Perry, Eloise Tinner, Earlean Blaylock and his sisters-in-law, Loretta Robinson and Vernita (James) Stockman.

James was adored by a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and countless friends who knew him as one of the hardest-working and kindest men they had ever met. He held a special place in his heart for his granddaughters, Ka'Mil and Tylah. James was also blessed with two lifelong friends, Piper and PeeWee, as well as his faithful former employer and friends, Rodney and Linda. He remained deeply grateful to Kevin, Joe and Lois for their steadfast friendship and unwavering support.

James's legacy of love, dedication and selflessness will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to know him.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Swift Funeral Home
Highway 61 South
Osceola, AR  72370
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com