Pat Barnes

Patricia Carman Barnes passed away March 12, 2026, surrounded by her three daughters, after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. She was 88 years old.

Patricia was born on April 29, 1937, in Lewistown, MT, one of five children born to Charles and Virginia Delaney. She attended St. Leo's High School in Lewistown before going to Eastern Montana College in Billings. Pat then turned her passion for learning into teaching, becoming a primary school teacher in Nashua and Glasgow, MT, where she taught for half a decade.

Pat met the love of her life, Gail Ross Barnes, whom she would marry on January 30, 1960, in Lewistown. In 1969, they purchased a small ranch near Christina, MT, along with the Christina Store and Post Office, where Pat was the postmaster. In 1971, they sold the Christina property and purchased the Bar LC Ranch near Hilger, MT. They raised three daughters there together - Lori, Debbie and Cindy. They were their pride and joy.

In 1985, they sold the ranch and moved to Billings, where Pat resided for the rest of her life. She lost her husband Gail in 2001, after 40 years of marriage.

Pat was a woman of strong faith and a very devoted Catholic right up to her death. Prior to getting sick, she was involved in St. Thomas Church in Billings for many years. She kept herself busy with many hobbies and was a talented woman, enjoying painting, drawing, embroidery, reading, puzzles, ceramics, quilting and guitar. Her daughters and grandkids still own some of her beautiful pieces, which they will cherish even more now that she is gone.

Although she loved many things, Pat's greatest love was her family. Her kids, grandkids, great-grandchildren and her dear sisters always held a special place in her heart.

Pat spent her last 3 years at St. John's United, and the family would like to thank the dedicated staff and friends who helped enrich her life at Mooreberg Cottage. She loved you all! Staff said that love went both ways, speaking of the impact she left on both workers and residents. Pat especially enjoyed the live music in her time there, often singing along and occasionally dancing to the tunes. She was a special lady who will be missed by all who loved her. We are comforted to think she is now dancing with Jesus.

Pat leaves behind her daughters, Lori (Randy Kuehn), Debbie Barnes Walker, and Cindy (Tim Jacobsen); six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Daisy Delaney (Rob). She was preceded in death by her husband, Gail Barnes; parents, Charles and Virginia Delaney; her brother, Jerry; and sisters, Shirley Wambeke and Virgie Pigeon.

All who knew Pat are invited to join the family for a Rosary and viewing at Creel Funeral Home in Lewistown on Monday, March 23rd, at 6 PM. Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 24th, at 11 AM at St. Leo's Catholic Church in Lewistown, with a burial and reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. John's United in Billings, the Alzheimer's Foundation, or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the care of Creel Funeral Home. Pat's family and friends can share memories and condolences at www.creelfuneralhome.com