Charles Dailey Barnes, Jr.

Charles Dailey Barnes Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, entered eternal rest on October 26, 2025, at the age of 90.

Born on November 10, 1934, in Huntsville, Texas, to Charles Dailey Sr. and Leah (Gresham) Barnes, Charles was a true testament to life's wonderful surprises. His entry into the world was a remarkable one-coming to light even when his mother accepted that she had already completed her journey of motherhood at the age of forty-two. With a growing belly and a diagnosis from doctors that she was afflicted with a rather large tumor, pre-surgery tests reveled that she was actually with child, thus beginning Charles' miraculous life.

A proud graduate of Centerville High School, Charles excelled in both football and basketball, carrying forward a love for sports that would accompany him throughout his life. He proudly played college basketball at Lon Morris and briefly attended the University of Texas at Austin, where his passion for sports further blossomed. As an avid fan of Centerville High School sports, even in his later years, Charles could recount the most memorable local high school football games with such enthusiasm that it felt as if they had just taken place, always eager to hear the latest scores from his favorite team.

Charles was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church in Centerville, often humorously stating that he had been attending since before his birth, as his mother served as the church pianist. Though he wasn't always seen every Sunday, his heart was full of love for the Lord, and he maintained a vibrant prayer life throughout his years.

As a devoted rancher, Charles took immense pride in his cattle, and could recite their lineage as easily as a proud parent shares stories of their children. For twenty years, he devoted his time to the Texas Highway Department.  It was Charles' thirty-five year tenure on the Centerville School Board that truly showcased his commitment to nurturing future generations.

Charles also had a flair for the nostalgic, enjoying classic westerns such as *Gunsmoke* and *Lonesome Dove,* reminiscing about the tales of courage and camaraderie that resonated so well with his own life.

Charles had an incredible gift for connecting with people. His genuine interest in others made him a beacon of joy and support-a friend who could brighten anyone's day with his warm conversation and infectious laughter. Charles had a special connection with his many friends often recounting, "I couldn't make it without my friends." The many people that Charles called friend may never know the deep affect that their friendship had on Charles. It sustained him through his life, and He was grateful for each one of his friends.

He was especially proud of his family, including his loving wife, Nelda Barnes of Centerville, who stood steadfastly by his side; his children, Suzanne Leathers (Jerry) of Centerville and Blake Barnes (Jennifer) of Centerville; "special son," Nicholas Arciva of Grand Prairie; grandchildren, Pennie Graeber (Will), Cole Leathers, Logan Leathers (fiance', Elizabeth), Charli Barnes, and Landon Barnes (Jessica); and great-grandchildren, Emma, Leah, Jack, Connor, Collins, Brandelyn, Bristyn, Bostyn, Bellamy, Baylor, and Candace; as well as a host of special friends. Charles was preceded in death by both of his parents and his first wife, Nancy Barnes.

A celebration of Charles' remarkable life will take place at 2 P.M. on Thursday, October 30, 2025, during a funeral service at Cowboy Church of Leon County. Prior to the service, family and friends are invited to join for a visitation beginning at 1 P.M., also at the church. Following the service, Charles will be laid to rest next to the land he so loved and cared for in New Salem Cemetery, located in the Centerview Community of Leon County, Texas.

As we gather to honor a man who brought laughter, love, and light into our lives, let us remember the countless stories, the joy he spread, and the lasting impact he made on everyone he met. Charles Barnes may have left this earthly realm, but his spirit will forever remain in our hearts.

Pallbearers: Cole Leathers, Logan Leathers, Will Graeber, Landon Barnes, Bubba Oden, Steve Dawson

In lieu of flowers, the Barnes family requests memorial donations to the Cowboy Church of Leon County, P.O. Box 1078, Centerville, Texas 75833.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.