Gary Lee Barnes Sr.

Gary Lee Barnes of Fort Worth, Texas was born to Jennie Cagley and George Barnes on June 1, 1944 while his parents were stationed in Santa Barbara, California. After spending his childhood in Camden, Arkansas at the age of 12 their family moved to Fort Worth, Texas. At 19 he joined the Navy serving as a gunner’s mate during the Vietnam War.  He then met the love of his life on a blind date. He married Norma Jean Barnes on June 13, 1969. He worked in the Civil Service for 29 years, retiring from the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. Even though he retired he never stopped working. Gary was the on-call maintenance man for several organizations and the first call for his family—he was a jack-of-all-trades and knew how to fix anything. 

Gary was a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather known as “Papa” for the last 33 years. Gary and Norma were a power couple for the Kingdom bringing light everywhere they went and especially leading their family in faith. Gary was known for his servant heart, did not know a stranger, and always had a story to tell. He enjoyed hunting, watching westerns, eating dessert, hanging out in his shop, working on projects, and spending time with his family. 

Gary entered the Kingdom of Heaven peacefully and surrounded by loved ones on July 24, 2023 at age 79 after spending a few days in the hospital.  He was predeceased by his parents, his sisters Cathy Monday and Beverly McComb, and his brother David Barnes. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Norma; his three children Deedra (Jimmy) Moody, Lisa (Luke) Shook, and Gary (Cai) Barnes Junior; 9 grandchildren: Justin, Amanda, Kara, Erica, Erin, Rylee, Zach, Jadyn, and Ethan; 6 great grandchildren; and 2 sisters Patricia Martin and Diane McAteer.  

Please join us celebrating his life Friday August 4, 2023, at 11:00 a.m.  at Bethesda Community Church, 4700 N. Beach St. Haltom City, TX 76137.