Johnnie W. Barnes

Johnnie William Barnes, age 87, a devoted husband, father, and faithful servant of the Lord, passed peacefully into eternity after a life defined by love, humility, and unwavering faith on August 25, 2025.

A Homegoing Celebration will be held on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Olivet Baptist Church in Rock Island, Illinois. The final viewing will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:30 a.m. During the viewing, Family and friends may share heartfelt reflections and cherished memories in honor of his life and legacy. Burial will follow at Chippiannock Cemetery, Rock Island. Trimble Funeral Home & Crematory, Moline, is assisting the family.

Born on September 16, 1937, in a barn on his family’s property in Tupelo, Mississippi, Johnnie’s journey began amid simple surroundings that would shape his generous heart. From an early age, he found joy in family gatherings, laughter echoing through fields, and the comforting promise of God’s presence in every moment.

Johnnie was the son of John Barnes and Willie Lee Barnes. He spent the first nineteen years of his life in Tupelo Mississippi, attending George Washington Carver High School. In August 1957, he followed his cousin Tarley McKinley to Rock Island, Illinois, where new adventures and blessings awaited.

On April 26, 1961, Johnnie married the love of his life, Lurline Wyona Holland. Together they built a strong, faith-filled household and were blessed with nine children: Debbie Holland, Larry Holland, Lisa Holland, Roberta (Kennette) Holland-Edwards, Robin Barnes, Glory Barnes, Crystal Barnes (Shelby), John Barnes, and Dana Barnes.

Their home was a place of prayer, song, family gatherings and countless memories; Sunday dinners that lingered long into the evening.

In July 1960, Johnnie “answered” his country’s call, after being drafted and enlisting as a Private E-2 in the U.S. Army. He trained with Company A at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and served bravely during the Vietnam War era. His time overseas deepened his reliance on prayer and bolstered his compassion for others in need.

After his military service, Johnnie dedicated over two decades to International Harvester’s Farmall Works in Rock Island. In February 1985, he and Lurline relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana, where he continued his work at the Navistar Engineering Plant until his retirement in March 2004. Throughout his career, he earned the respect of colleagues for his integrity, hard work, and ready smile.

Johnnie was a faithful and dedicated member of Olivet Baptist Church in Rock Island, Illinois, where he served with commitment under the spiritual guidance of Pastor A.B. Collins and Pastor Roy H. Cheers. Following his relocation to Indianapolis, Indiana, he continued his devotion by joining Southern Missionary Baptist Church, where he served faithfully under the leadership of Pastor Dennis Walker. His faith was the cornerstone of his life. He found peace in scripture, strength in worship, and purpose in sharing God’s love with all who crossed his path. His family takes comfort in the promise of Matthew 25:21: “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much.

Johnnie is reunited in heaven with his beloved wife, Lurline Barnes; his children Robin Barnes, Roberta (Kennette) Holland-Edwards, and John Barnes. He leaves behind a legacy of faith lived out in service, laughter, and prayer.

He is survived by his sister, May Frances (Henry) Cobb; six children, Debbie Holland, Lisa Howard, Larry Holland, Glory Barnes, Crystal (Gary) Shelby, and Dana Barnes; 17 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren: and two great-great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind a multitude of nieces and nephews, cherished cousins, and dear friends; each one a testament to his generous spirit and the countless lives he touched with kindness, laughter, and unwavering faith.

In honoring Johnnie’s memory, his family invites you to celebrate a life well lived and a heart wholly devoted to the Lord. May his example inspire us to love deeply, serve faithfully, and trust God’s promises until we meet again.

The family invites friends to share stories and condolences at TrimbleFuneralHomes.com.