James Barnes Obituary
James was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Linda (Beal) Barnes. Together, they built a life centered on love, laughter, and shared moments that became cherished memories. He was a proud father to Barbara Koffler (Mike Woodley), Lisa Orbin (William Orbin) James Barnes (Laureen Barnes), and Marla Martray (Kenny Martray). His role as a grandfather and great-grandfather brought him immense joy. He leaves behind grandchildren Jennifer Etling (Kevin Etling) Randy Koffler (Kimberly Koffler) Jamie Lynn Patton (Jacob Patton), Kensi Martray, Jared Barnes, Hailey Miller (Tyler Miller), Jordan Hay (Aspen Hay), John Martray, and JT Barnes. His great-grandchildren-Christopher, Landon, Kevin, Jacob, Jaxson, Kaylee, Madison, Jason, and Dylan-were the lights of his later years.
He is also survived by his brother Robert Woodrick and sisters Donna Ford (Mark Ford) and Judy Heller (Butch Heller), who shared in the bonds of family that James held so dear. He was preceded in death by his mother Helen Woodrick, father Leroy Barnes, and many aunts, uncles, and grandparents who helped shape the man he became.
James found joy in the stillness of nature, especially while fishing-a pastime that brought him peace and reflection. Whether casting a line into a quiet lake or enjoying a cup of Starbucks coffee at sunrise, he embraced the beauty of the moment. His greatest happiness came from being surrounded by family, hearing their laughter, and feeling the warmth of his wife's hand in his.
Those who knew James remember him as a man who taught patience not through words but through example. He showed what it meant to love fully, work hard, and live humbly. His legacy is one of kindness, love, and quiet wisdom-a legacy that continues in the hearts of those he touched.
James "Fred" Barnes will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever ripple through the lives of his family and friends, just like the calm waters he loved so much. We take comfort in imagining him at peace, perhaps casting a line into heaven's lake.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2 Entries
Joan piper
Yesterday
So sorry for your loss hugs and prayers
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Lisa
October 18, 2025
So very sorry for you all. Keep all the memories flowing.
Hugs and love, Brent and Lisa Bowman
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