Jesse J. Barnes

Jesse J. Barnes

Jesse J. Barnes, 80, went to be with his Lord on May 18, 2017. He was born to Jesse and Alma Barnes in Jefferson City, Missouri on November 16, 1936. Jesse was a faithful member of Praise Assembly of God in Springfield, Missouri for over 40 years.

He married Rachel Martin, the love of his life, on December 6, 1965. He was thrilled to be the father to a son, Jerry and two daughters, Julie and Amber. He was a proud papaw to 7 grandchildren, Misty, Clayton, Zachary, Abigail, Caleb, Nicholas, and Shelby. Jesse enjoyed playing building blocks and playdoh with each of his grandbabies.

Jesse, known as "The Light Painter", was a successful professional artist. At the age of 10, he sold his first oil painting to his principal at his elementary school. Jesse's art career spanned over 5 decades, during which time he painted everything from individual portraits, wildlife, and landscapes. In the latter years, his painting's themed primarily on early American nostalgia. Jesse was a pioneer in creating lighting effects with paint. He was unparalleled in his ability to portray movement in water and fire on canvas. This brought depth and life to his images. Jesse Barnes will always be remembered as one of Missouri's most talented and celebrated artists. His ability to capture life through his use of light will hold a special place in our hearts and minds.

Before and after retirement, Jesse loved nothing more than spending time fishing at his home on Lake of the Ozarks.

Jesse was preceded in death by his father, Jesse Lee Barnes, his mother Alma Wright Barnes, two sisters and three brothers.

He is survived by his wife, Rachel; his son Jerry Barnes and his daughter Misty; his daughter Julie McClure and her husband Michael, their two children Abigail and Nicholas; his daughter Amber Gillette and her children Clayton, Zachary, Caleb and Shelby.

Visitation is scheduled for Monday, May 22, 2017 from 6pm-8pm at Klingner-Cope Family Funeral Home at Rivermonte (4500 S. Lone Pine Springfield, MO). A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 23, 2017 at 10am at Praise Assembly of God, 3535 North Glenstone Avenue, Springfield, Missouri. Burial will follow in Rivermonte Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jesse's name to Praise Assembly of God for special projects.

His family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to their close friends, our "extended family", for love and support before, during, and after Jesse's passing.

Online condolences can be made at www.klingnerfuneralhome.com