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.
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18 Condolence(s)
Tameka Jackson-Granger
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Jawanda Brunson
Saturday, January 4, 2025
Rip Uncle James May u rest on eternity ik everyone has greeted you with their open wings
Emma Poston
Saturday, January 4, 2025
To auntie Bobby, Uncle Jame Edward (Jim Edward), will always be remembered, in my heart. Praying God strength for you.
LOVE YOU AUNT BOBBY.
Leslie "Shorty" and Mary Martin
Friday, January 3, 2025
Sending heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the Barnes family, from the Harris and Martin families, for the loss of your loved one. Praying for God to hold you all close and give you comfort and peace. Rest in love James, you will be dearly missed.
Guyton & Kimbrough Family
Thursday, January 2, 2025
We would like to extend our prayers and condolences to the family. You will be missed and remembered for all the joyous memories you've given to each one of us. Rest in Love.
With Love,
The Guyton & Kimbrough Family
Joy Brown
Thursday, January 2, 2025
Prayers thee family James will be missed in Joiner Arkansas RIP
Annie Scales
Thursday, January 2, 2025
My deepest condolences to the family. I was the musician at one time at First Baptist Church under Pastor C.L.Redd. James was a friendly person and a dedicated member. My prayers and deepest sympathy to the family.
Julie Eddings (Ward)
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
To each of James beloved family members may God give each of you comfort and strength. I have alot of wonderful memories of going to Kelly’s station and James being there. He always had a smile on his face. He has his was with the kids.. my heart goes out to each of you.
David person
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Rest in peace my brother. my the Lord welcomes you with blessings into its heavenly doors.
James Smith
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
I didn’t know the family, but knew him well from his days at Kelly’s service station. Him and the rest of Kelly’s kept my telephone truck on the road back then. I always enjoyed seeing and chatting with James. Always had a smile and kind words. Prayers for him and the family. God bless.
Myra Smith
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
My condolences and prayers to the family. .
Nina Kennedy
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
We love you unconditionally Uncle James! You will be missed by so many! Thank you for your service, your hard work and dedication to make everything possible in so many people’s lives! Get your rest we got it from here!!
Ms. Willie Dawson
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
My prayers are with you all I am so sorry for your lost.praying for Peace and healing Bev James and Jackie much love to you all
James & Korine Bailey
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Go with Allah, Jehovah Our Lord and Savior, and be Blessed in New Chapter of afterlife. As I Told you in Person, I Love you Uncle James !!
Rose Wright
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Sending love and condolences to the family also from Uncle Leonard love you all
Laura Smith
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Barbara, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow.
Love,
Laura
King Dirty
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
You will be missed!
Christene Bradley (The Bradley Family)
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Our deepest condolences to The Barnes family, First Baptist Church of Joiner & his beloved friends.