Porter Ralph Barnes

Jonesboro- Porter Ralph Barnes,103, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2025, at Monette Manor. He was born in Bono, Arkansas, on December 27, 1921 to the late Luther Walker and Grace Chapel Barnes. A man of Baptist faith, Ralph married the love of his life, Viola Browning, on May 19, 1943. They shared nearly seven decades together until her passing in 2012. Ralph served his country honorably in the U.S. Navy during World War II and later worked as a farmer before retiring from General Electric. Ralph was a lifelong competitor in archery, winning numerous trophies and continuing to compete well into his 90s-a testament to his enduring spirit and precision. He loved playing baseball, bow hunting, and fishing. After retirement, he relocated to Mountain Home. He is survived by his son, Porter Randel (Jane) Barnes of Trumann; daughter, Lisa (Allan) Russell of Jonesboro; grandchildren, Derek Russell, Aaron James Russell, Gary Wayne Tolbert, Brandy Annette Holden, and Kristy; 11 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren. Ralph was preceded in death by his daughter, Charlotte Ann Holden; sisters, Kathleen Cox, Patty Sue McDowen, Margaret Ann, and Wanda Lee. Visitation will be held Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Gregg-Langford Bookout Funeral Home Chapel. A funeral service celebrating Ralph's life will take place Friday, August 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. with ministers, Karon Doyle, Kenny Wright, and Don Foster officiating, at the Chapel. Burial will follow at Trinity Cemetery in Bono. Honored to serve as pallbearers are Derek Russell, Aaron Russell, Shannon Whiton, Don Browning, Gary Tolbert, and Tim Bradley. Honorary pallbearers are Rusty McFall, John Payne, Rick Skaggs, Bobby Davis, Dale Davis, and Norman Leonard. To send a flower arrangement in memory of Porter Ralph Barnes, please click here to visit our sympathy store.