Gary Douglas Barnes

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Gary Douglas Barnes. He transitioned peacefully at the age of 66 on January 17, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was a resident of Tallulah, LA for the past 30 years.  

Gary, the baby of the bunch, was born on April 11th, 1959, in Coatesville, PA to William and Doris Barnes.  

He is preceded in death by his parents, William Jacob Barnes and Doris Sallie Wiltshire Barnes, his grandparents Arthur Wiltshire and Dorothy P. Mack Wiltshire, and his brother Richard “Lefty” Barnes.  

He is survived by his children Jennifer Barnes of Texarkana, TX, Nathaniel Barnes of San Antonio, TX, Kathleen Barnes and Zachary Barnes of Delta, LA, his grandchildren Preston Barnes and Kyndall Barnes, his brothers William Barnes and Michael Barnes of Vicksburg, MS, and his sister Deborah Runnels of Eagle Lake, MS. As well as an abundance of nieces, nephews and cousins.  

Gary, fondly known as “ButterBean”, was a graduate of Warren Central High School in 1978. He currently worked for Greenlawn Gardens in Vicksburg, MS. Over the course of his life, he also worked for Big River Shipbuilders, Hebeler, and Bechtel to name a few, but one of his most important jobs was continuously working on his daughters’ cars for them.  

He had an adventurous spirit that led him on many trips across the United States with his family and best friends Anthony and Leah McElroy of Russellville, AR. He loved going to concerts, theme parks, water parks, the drag races and taking cruises. On the weekends when he was not traveling, you could always find him at the movies with his brothers or his niece. During the week he could be heard fields away cheering on his grandchildren for their sporting events, but not as loud as he cheered for his favorite team, the Eagles. 

Gary truly was a beloved soul who touched many lives. His unwavering love, devotion to his family, genuine spirit, kindheartedness and laughter will be greatly missed, far and wide.  

The family would like to express great appreciation to his medical team, Dr. Samuel Pierce, Dr. Paul Pierce IV, Dr. Ramah Sohal, Dr. Dawinder Sohal, the ICU and CVICU nursing staff of Merit Health River Region, and Enhabit Hospice Care.  

Visitation will be held Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 12:30-2:00 pm at Bovina Global Methodist Church, 70 Bovina Dr. Vicksburg, MS 39180. A memorial service will follow immediately after.  

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to a charity of your choice.  

“A life that touches others, goes on forever.”  

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