Bob Barnes - The Kindest Man of Our Lives

Robert “Bob” Joe Barnes set the standard for a life well spent, inspiring everyone around him, from his wife and children to his siblings to strangers on the street. Throughout the sixty-seven years of his too-short life, Bob focused his life on the strength of his resolve, the benefits of humor, and above all the importance of kindness.

On August 17, 2024, Bob passed away surrounded by his loved ones. He is survived by his wife of nearly forty-two years, Natalie; his children, Beth Hall, Terrell Barnes, and Faith Barnes-Martin; his sons-in-law David Hall and Matt Martin; his grandchildren, Jaxon and Ezra Hall; his mother and stepfather, Nell and Rodney Ross; and several siblings, Mike Dellinger, Ronda Phillips, Tonya Recore, and Sandy Barnes.

He is preceded in death by his father, Robert Barnes, and his brother, Rocket Barnes.

Born in Charlotte on December 12, 1956, Bob graduated from Olympic High, where he played baseball and football for several years. Following high school, Bob attended UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State University, eventually graduating from Pfeiffer College in 1980 with a degree in Business. In his career, he worked a variety of positions, from grocery store manager, oil tank cleaner, brake line specialist to finally engraver at Recore Electric, which he did for over twenty-five years. Though he was dedicated to his career and education, the thing Bob Barnes loved the most was his family.

Growing up as one of six children, Bob learned the value of family early. Once he became an adult and met Natalie, his own family began, one he cherished above everything else. A natural family man, Bob strove to provide for his wife and three children, even through incredibly difficult and harrowing events, such as the stroke he suffered at only thirty-eight. While most doctors believed he wouldn't speak or walk again, Bob persevered. He pushed himself daily to regain the life he wanted so that he could spend as much time with his family as he could. This held true even when he got his cancer diagnosis. No matter what, Bob found a way to bring joy to his family and all those around him, either through his words, a hug, or simply a laugh.

From saying hello to the passing neighbors to spending time with his grandchildren daily, Bob embodied kindness, and anyone who met him would agree. It is from that kindness that his family gathers strength to get through this difficult time, and it is the memories of his smile and his laugh that help his wife, children, grandchildren, and family know he is no longer in pain and is in a better place.

A memorial service will be held for Bob on Wednesday, August 21, 2024 at 4 p.m. with a receiving at 3 p.m. at Warlick Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, Bob would want you to spend time with your loved ones and make them smile.

Warlick Funeral Home of Lincolnton, N.C. is serving the Barnes family.