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James Barner Obituary
Memorial service: 10 a.m. Thursday at Wiley Funeral Home.
Memorials: In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to National Colorectal Cancer Research Alliance, www.nccra.org; American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org; or a charity of choice.
Jim was born July 25, 1966, in Middletown, Ohio, to Walter and Vonda Abney Barner. He married Melissa Garland on March 26, 2005, in Granbury. He graduated from Madison High School in 1992 and Austin Peay State University in 1990. He was self-employed, doing what he loved, carpentry and designing cowboy boots. Jim enjoyed sketching, painting, Texas music, wood work, his friends, family and his four beloved dogs. Jim never met a stranger and would go to any length to help a friend.
Survivors: Wife of five years, Melissa; parents, Walter and Vonda Barner of Middletown, Ohio; brothers, Tim Barner and wife, Laura Solano, of Medford, Mass., and Jeff Barner of Cumberland, R.I.; sisters, Leah Foster and husband, Brad, of Cumberland, R.I., and Amy Barner of Middletown, Ohio; nieces, Bailey Foster and Isabel Barner; nephew, Keegan Foster; and a host of friends.
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Memories and Condolences
for James Barner
Sponsored by Melissa Barner.
Anna Oberhauser
October 21, 2013
I'm not sure why I googled your name. It could have been triggered by the beautiful campus of Ohio University while dropping my daughter off there this fall.It was first quarter of OU,29 years ago and you needed a haircut. As the quarter went on, you visited our shop and made us laugh. Every appointment- everytime.I don't think you liked OU, but you liked Athens, Ohio.I have often thought of you over the years and prayed you were living the good life. As I read the memories of all these people who have been in your life, I see you have had all that and more. You must be wearing the largest star God has on your crown! You have been such a blessing to all who crossed your path, including mine. I'm sorry I have not keep in touch all these years. But I'm sure you understand. We will meet again someday.To catch up and maybe for a haircut! I have shared this statement with many people over the years... You and I were having a talk about church. You said "it matters not what church you go to....in the end we will all be standing in the same line".So, so true. I know this is very late, and a little long...so much to say~ With deepest sympathy to your beautiful wife and loving family. Anna Oberhauser... old hairstylist and friend~
May 10, 2013
Well, here we are years later. I miss you buddy. You're gone but you're still with me. Your picture sits atop my mantle. I think of you often and wish you were around to bounce stuff off of. I know how you like to read so hopefully you're reading this and all those novels you didn't get a chance to finish.
Thanks to you I know you're in a better place, just one of the many things you taught me. You will never be forgotten.
collier
Chris Jackson
February 18, 2011
I'm a college friend of Jim's from Austin Peay. I've been trying to track him down for some time via Facebook and other means. I'm quite sad to learn of his passing. I remember Jim as a warm funny person and remember the times we had like it was yesterday. Peace be with you brother. God Bless.
Bonita Loggins
June 22, 2010
Melissa,
My prayers are continuously with and for you daily. I know that beside every good man stands a good woman. Know that though I didn't get the opportunity to meet your Sweetheart I do know that he had to be a blessed man because your definitely a blessed woman. God bless you Sweetie and may God always watch over and keep you forever. I will be checking on you periodically. Many blessings and take care.
Richard & Trinkie Owens
May 17, 2010
Melissa,
We were so saddened to hear the news of Jim's passing. We remember, with fondness, the times Jim, Paul and Dewayne were in our home visiting our son Ted and listening to their endless laughter....they were all 'such buds'...he was a gentle, kind soul with a twinkle in his eye. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in the days and weeks to come.
Richard and Trinkie Owens (parents of school friend, Ted)
Robby Johnson
May 17, 2010
Melissa,
I'm so sorry to hear about Jim. He was such a great guy. Robby and I really enjoyed our times together at those Cowboy fundraiser events (with Jennifer, Collier and the gang). Please know you are in our prayers and we are here if you need anything at all. Warmly, Allison and Robby Johnson
Jeff Jones
May 16, 2010
The day I met Jim I knew I had found a great friend. When he came to work for David's, I found myself working late many nights and my office was a comfortable place to work. Equipped with desk, sofa and TV, staying late was easy and Jim found it a comfortable spot to lay down, watch a little TV and then fall asleep until I was done working and ready to go home. Listening to Texas music and catching some concerts was something we both enjoyed and spending time with Jim, listening to his wit and wisdom and just being at peace with being was something I shared with him. Too many things got in the way of spending time with him over the past few years but it was always good to see him with Rod or wherever we bumped into each other. He will be missed.
Jim and Melissa in Maine 2009
Laura Solano
May 16, 2010
Jim was all the things that everyone has said and more. He was a great brother to his siblings, a fine son even when he caused sleepless nights (ah, that free spirit, always), a cool uncle, and a doting and devoted husband. Since several of you never knew his wife Melissa, I thought you should know that Jim married his soul mate. As his sister-in-law, I have known him for nearly 30 years ---since he was 13! --- and I saw him grow into a man, find his way and date his (small) share of women. Until Melissa showed up, no one was worthy of his heart. He saved the best years for her.
Like all great loves, they were so similar and so different. Melissa likes getting from A to B as quickly as possible; Jim didn't mind the scenic route. Melissa can do 12 things at once, all perfectly accomplished, while Jim was plodding. Jim could lay his head on a sack of potatoes and call it home; Melissa took care to feather the nest, all of it orderly and comfortable. Jim never had a dollar he wasn't willing to give away; Melissa was ever generous but planned for the future. Jim loved the adventure of working many jobs; Melissa stayed put and helped build a small company into a big one. Jim's family was big and loud; Melissa's was small and loving but reserved.
Jim and Melissa were each their own person, she Type A and he Type B, but they shared so much.
Each was creative. Jim designed intricately patterned boots, sketched and built astounding things. Melissa's photographs beautifully capture the sublime, with a talented and quick eye for composition and, in her everyday life, she was always able to whip up something from nothing. They laughed at the same things whether obvious, irreverent or subtle. All things Texas were in their hearts, she a native and he destined to live there since birth. Neither could imagine living without dogs, the more the merrier and the bigger the better (mind you, Jim never noticed and Melissa never complained about the mud they tracked in the house though Melissa was quick to vacuum without missing a beat in the conversation). The adventure of travel and discovery captivated them both and they were hard to keep up with on vacations. They were smart, believed in self-improvement and never stopped learning. Each was strong and confident but quickly forgave shortcomings. Family was deeply important to both; they were always available in hard times and ready to join in the fun.
It is no mistake that his name ended and hers began with the letter “M”----they were hinged by the energy of life and in the love that they felt for each other.
We already miss you, Jim, but we will also miss the radiant way that you and Melissa looked at each other---it was poignant and lovely to see.
Laura Solano, wife of your loving brother Tim.
Shannon (Benda) Slusser
May 15, 2010
The Lord's timing is perfect, and He sent Jim into my life at a time when his gentle spirit and laughing eyes were needed most. It was twenty-one years ago, I was fifteen, and Daddy was dying of brain cancer. Jim would visit...sometimes just to talk with Mama and Daddy, and other times to help out, cutting wood, etc. After The Lord took Daddy home, Jim wrote a poem for Mama entitled "Gone Fishin'". Daddy was a fisherman, and Jim's poem described Daddy doing what he loved best, fishing on the beautiful shores of Heaven. Years of packing and unpacking with military moves have allowed me to revisit often that wonderful image of Daddy that Jim painted with his words, and I am forever grateful for that gift. The image in my mind now includes two fishermen on the shore, both of them pain-free and whole, laughing, and having the time of their Life. I love and miss you both. ~Shannon
Bernie Baker
May 14, 2010
So many memories have been flooding back to me in the last few days of Jim and the many good times we had in college and after college. Jim introduced me to the music of Harry Connick, Jr and the humor of Lewis Grizzard. One of the best concerts that I ever went to was a Harry Connick, Jr concert in Nashville at TPAC with Jim. Jim helped me to get out of my box and enjoy life. He made everyone feel good and welcome. He did not exclude people. He brought out the best in everyone. I am a better person because of Jim. He was a wonderful friend. I will miss him greatly. See you again someday.
D'Shon Foster
May 14, 2010
Melissa,
I never met Jim but heard that he was a wonderful person. My prayers are with you and rest in knowing, that you will see him again one day.
Praying for you
Lesley Hunt
May 13, 2010
Dear Melissa~
I can only believe that the degree of your sadness is evened out by the fact that Jim's physical body is finally at rest. I considered him a true friend, a great teacher and a spiritual brother. He was kind and gracious and generous and he so loved you. I know he is watching over all of us and I will light a candle in the chapel at The Center today to honor the bright light that was Jim.
Teresa Clark Cunningham
May 13, 2010
I too went to high school with Jim. We were in the trombone section together (well kind of together if you don't count having to be in step). There was always mischief to be had, pranks to be played, and on a few occasions, some pretty good music to be played. I've always remembered Jim as one of the funniest people I have ever met. I can only imagine that humor became like a fine wine, something that gets even better with age.
I am so sorry for your loss. Jim in is in God's warm embrace now. The pain is gone for him now and hopefully that does give you some comfort. I pray that God bless and keep you all at this time.
Emilee Hall
May 12, 2010
Melissa,
I don't know where to begin. Jim was such a sweet, sweet, man, and it was always such a pleasure to work with him. We will miss him so much. He always had such a big smile whenever he came to the office--he brightened my day so many times.
May 12, 2010
Jim, I grabbed my phone to text you the usual, "thinking of you" and I am but you will no longer send me your funny comments.That wit of yours, sometimes it took me awhile to get it!
I will miss you at the finals, I will miss you coming with Collier to fish, I will miss your help when a friend calls at the last minute and needs help. Your gentle ways are needed in this world and I will miss that most of all.
Linda Jones, Hico, Tx.
Melissa Butler
May 12, 2010
"Cowboy Jim", "Gentlemen Jim", but to me and my family Jim Barner is known as "Brother Jim". We also met Jim at church and became fast friends. Almost inseparatable...my husband Reg, Jim and me...the three amigos!
Jim helped us bury countless family members, even laying in the floor with me crying the day we buried my dad.
He was there when our youngest children were born. First Gunnar and then Lesley and was an incredible mentor to our oldest, Hayley, who was only two (now pushing 16) when we met Jim.
Reg says Jim was a cut above the rest, which I say sums it up pretty well. We could never understand why Jim wanted to be our friend...so different in many ways, yet so alike in many other ways.
Anyone who knew Jim was hugely blessed!Jim's kindness and generousity knew no boundries. His humor and wit was unmatched! He saw the best in everyone and in every situation. We are are better just for knowing him!
Our hearts are broken, our memories flooded, with the good times and the rough patches in the road. Our hope is in the future...where we will be reunited!
Dewayne Charles
May 12, 2010
Melissa,
We have never met, I grew up with Jim and we were great friends in high school. Jim, Paul, Ted and I were the 'crew'. We had many crazy adventures and lots of fun. And even though we lost contact with each other soon after high school, I will always count Jim as one of the best friends I ever will have. My family and I will be remembering you in our prayers.
Kim & Arlettia Sharp
May 12, 2010
Melissa, words escape me right now. Kim and I were heart broken after hearing the news about Jim. You are in our every thought and our every prayer. We love you.
Melba Daniels
May 11, 2010
Melissa, thank you for sharing your Jim with me. I feel honored to have called him "my Jim-Jim", I will always treasure the daily conversations when he called to check on "his beautiful bride". You know that my family and I love you dearly and will always be here for you...Melba, B.R., Brittany and Briana
Collier Albright
May 11, 2010
Cowboy, my first message didn't go through (guess it was sprinkled with to much colorful language). Here comes the G-Rated version: Your leaving has really made me mad! Whose gonna tell me that the color I chose for my house wasn't "salmon/sand" but was really pink? Who will subtley let me know that "adults" don't wear white socks with their work shoes (I'm still doin it!). Who am I gonna laugh at while I'm catchin flounder and you're there without a bite? Whose gonna sit back and drink a beer while laughing as I clean those d*mn fish? Who's gonna listen to my petty gripes as he fights the battle of a lifetime without ever complaining? Who's gonna keep me abreast of the worlds corniest jokes AND the world's greatest stories? Who's gonna teach me about God? Whose gonna be my best friend? I miss you more than I can express.
Brian Vincent
May 11, 2010
Jim, you taught me so much in life, boots and living in a travel trailer without hot water! Selling boots in arizona meant you were my roommate in the trailer, but you were the roommate anybody would want! You taught me dirty spanish words, how to fit boots and told the best jokes late at night when i was trying to sleep. You are an amazingly kind person and will be deeply missed. I will see you again someday friend. Love your friend forever Brian
David O'Brien
May 11, 2010
Melissa,
You and I have not had the pleasure of meeting, but I knew Jim from his years in Nashville, as we both attended First Baptist Church here. Jim quickly became a friend to everyone he met! His warmth, concern for others, and his wonderful sense of humor - oh, his humor! - made so many people, including myself, happy to be around him. It has been many years since I have seen Jim, but my memories of him are a blessing. I am so thankful he was a part of my life. My prayers are with you and all of Jim's family.
Raymond & Barbara Brogdon
May 11, 2010
Melissa, May the love of your friends and family carry you through your grief. Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel always watching over you.
Jim, Your gentle spirit and sincere kindness will always live on in our hearts and prayers. We will continue to celebrate a life well lived and cherish those memories forever. Heaven has a true cowboy, gentle and kind.
We are keeping you both in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless You.
Cindy Perters
May 11, 2010
Melissa... I remember the day I met Jim. We struck up a friendship about 7 years ago when he worked for David's Western Wear in Granbury. I quickly found him to be one of the kindest men I have ever known. He was a "Cowboy" and was loyal and trustworthy. All that know Jim will miss him dearly. All love to you and your family...Cindy Peters
May 11, 2010
Melissa, we are standing strong for you so if you need anything please just let us know. We love you and loved Jim dearly. He was such a strong and wonderful man. Love, The Baileys
Kristi Smith
May 11, 2010
After hearing so many of Jay's amazingly funny and crazy stories about his old roommate and friend, I could not WAIT to meet Jim (and I believe he was referred to as "Jungle Jim" most of the time). This was over 14 years ago, and I still love hearing those stories. We had the opportunity to know a truly gentle, kind, generous, humble, and funny man for a too-short period of time. We were honored to be at your wedding, Melissa, and to see the sweet woman he could not stop talking about become his wife. God blessed him wonderfully at the end of his life with you by his side. May God bless you now with comfort and peace as you grieve Jim's passing. We are praying for you.
Dan Woods
May 11, 2010
Jim, i am so grateful to have met you and become freinds. You are truely a best freind. You tought me so much about boots, life, and texas music. I will never listen to Tom Russell with out thinking about you. You are the son i never had and my brother all in one. I know i will see you again and i know we have been together before. You are the only person i have ever met who can clap with one hand, i will never forget you.
Donna Trotter
May 11, 2010
Melissa, I never had the pleasure of meeting you, but I did know Jim while he lived in Nashville. And knowing Jim, I know you are one special lady and I know he loved you passionately and fully. Jim was the kind of friend many go a lifetime and never get to have. I thank God for allowing me to have Jim as a friend. You and his family are in my prayers.
Judy Peterson
May 11, 2010
A precious man is now bringing joy to the angels in heaven. They are having a party welcoming Jim home. We only get a short life here on earth and Jim showed people how easy and simple life could be through his strength and trust in God. He will be missed by all who knew him. May God's comfort be with Melissa and Jim's family.
May 11, 2010
Jim, You filled our lives with love and laughter. We will miss you more than anyone can ever imagine but we look forward to seeing you again when God calls us home. Mom and Dad
Jay Smith
May 11, 2010
Jim and I go back over 20 years. We met at church, and became great friends quickly, and were roommates for a while before life took me to St. Louis, and him to Texas. He was an incredibly loyal, loving and caring friend, and we walked through many of life’s ups and downs together—praying and encouraging one another when we needed it, and also being a listener to each other when there were no answers to what life was throwing at us. We also had more laughs along the way than I could begin to mention here.
Jim was a special friend. Though we have been geographically distant for many years, our friendship was always strong, and anytime we talked on the phone, it was as if we just talked 2 days prior, without missing a beat. It was a special friendship that I will always be grateful for. We were so different in many ways, but alike in many ways too, and God just gave us each other to be great friends with all this time. He had an amazing sense of humor, a heart as big as the state he called home, and the willingness to always be there for a friend. When he entered a room, the room changed, and when he smiled, the room would light up. He was full of life, and full of hope, even after being diagnosed with cancer.
I am honored to call him one of my dearest friends who blessed me in so many ways over the years. He was one of a kind, and he will be greatly missed.
Lori Williams
May 11, 2010
Melissa, I am praying for you to feel God's peace and strength at this time of loss. You're right, Jim is finally healed and you'll see him again. Love you!
May 11, 2010
Melissa I was saddened to hear about Jim. He will definitely be missed he always wore a smile and was such a genuine person. You could tell that both of you loved and cherished each other very much. We are all better people for knowing Jim. Let me know if you need anything an ear, a hug or just to listen. My heart goes out to you and his family
Mel McGee
Fort Worth, TX
Paula Barnes
May 11, 2010
Jim was one of a kind and never met a stranger. I was blessed to have known him, even for just a short time. My prayers are with his family and friends.
Bernie Baker
May 11, 2010
Jim, You will be missed! You were one of a kind and my best friend during college and when we both lived in Nashville. We had so many good times together. You were a wonderful friend. I have so many great memories.
Melissa, I am praying for you and for Jim's family. He told me how wonderful you are and how much he loved you. He will be missed.
Lisa Conley
May 11, 2010
I went to high school with Jimmy. I will alway remember that smile, and his quick wit. He was a very loving and kind soul and will always be thought of foundly. My prayers are with his wife and family as they go forward and deal with their loss.
Lisa "Fultz" Conley
Middletown, Ohio
Madison High School Class of 84'
Melissa Barner
May 11, 2010
Jim,
You made me a better person just by standing next to me. You were my best friend and companion. Your patience, kindness and love saved my life many times over. I am honored that you chose me to be your wife. I know you are resting peacefully and I will see you again.
All my love, Melissa
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