Paul Ferdinand Barnes

Paul Ferdinand Barnes, 66
LA GRANGE

Paul Ferdinand Barnes entered into eternity at the age of 66 on April 11, 2025. He joins his parents, Hugh E. and Mary Irene Smith Barnes, and his oldest brother Hugh E. Barnes Jr., in the presence of Christ. Paul was born in La Grange on September 22, 1958, and graduated from Oldham County High School, Class of 1976. He then went on to serve his nation as a sailor in the United States Navy.
Paul was best known for his ability to work with his hands, always building, patching and fabricating. There was nothing he could not build or make with his hands. He loved to use these talents for others, always seeking to assist someone in a project. He was also, always the first to volunteer to join a mission group, where he served with the Baptist Builders joining them on 15 different trips, going from Western Kentucky all the way to Pike County. He also helped on a number of Oldham County Repair Affair projects, helping elderly and disabled individuals with much-needed home repairs. He worked on the first two apartment buildings of Good News Homes, which continued to serve 4 families each in Oldham and Trimble counties. He took part in three international trips, two to Russia (where he helped with construction of two churches) and one to Poland (where they provided repair work for the European Baptist Seminary in Warsaw).
Paul's team members remember him for his expertise and quickness in the field. He was an outgoing, funny guy who thoroughly loved and enjoyed his team members as much as they did him. He worked closely with Shane Courtney and Rick Lucas and together they shared many special memories.
He is survived by his brother, Willard Barnes (Joy); sisters, Elaine Gardner and Cindy Retzlaff (Craig); sister-in-law, Mary Sue Barnes; and many nieces and nephews. Paul also leaves behind his best friends of over 13 years, Tammy and Phil Branson.
In appreciation and gratitude for his service and sacrifice to our nation while serving in the United States Navy, Paul will find his final resting place at the Indiana Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1415 North Gate Road, Madison, Ind. 47250. A memorial service was held in the Chapel on Monday, May 19, 2025, at 10 a.m., where all were invited to offer their condolences to the family and share specific memories of Paul.