of Hernando, MS

January 31, 1937 - September 21, 2025

William Gerald Barnes, known affectionately as Bill, Gerald or William, but was most proud to be called Daddy and Papa, passed away on Sunday, September 21, 2025 at the age of 88 following a brief illness.

Born on January 31, 1937 in Bethel Springs, Tennessee, Gerald graduated from Turrell High School before proudly serving in the United States Army. He completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and spent the majority of his service at Fort Huachuca, Arizona.

After his military service, Gerald began working in Memphis at a clothing company, cutting denim for jeans. He later embarked on a long and dedicated career with the United States Postal Service, starting at the Hulbert office in West Memphis. When that office closed, he transferred to the West Memphis location, where he served as Supervisor of Mail and Handling. During this time, he also worked for twelve years in the money room at Southland Greyhound Park. He was promoted to Postmaster in Oxford, Mississippi and later served as Postmaster in Greenwood, Mississippi until his retirement after 30 years of service.

In his younger years, he found joy in playing guitar, fishing and coaching softball for the J.W. Rich Girls Club, along with various basketball teams. In retirement, Gerald and his wife, Jean enjoyed traveling together and spending time at the casinos. He never missed a moment when it came to his grandchildren. Whether it was volleyball, soccer or anything in between, he was always there cheering them on from the sidelines. No matter where they were in the world, he made it a point to stay in touch and be part of their lives. His love for family extended far and wide and he took great pride in both his children and grandchildren.

He was known for his sharp mind, quick wit and warm personality, and he always had a joke ready to share. As he grew older, he cherished watching westerns, putting together puzzles and satisfying his sweet tooth.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Jean ''Nana'' Barnes; his parents, Vurnes and Maidell Barnes and two brothers, Doyle C. Barnes and Raymond Barnes.

He is survived by his children: Randall (Tracy) Barnes of Nesbit, MS and Amy (Tommy) Sinclair of West Memphis, AR; grandchildren: Thomas Sinclair of Arlington, VA, Taylor (Richard) Wright of Marion, AR and Caleb Barnes of Nesbit, MS; Four Great grandchildren, Wayne, Brody, Betty Lou and Waylon Wright all of Marion, AR and one sister, Joyce Chandler of Winder, GA.

He is also survived by his special companion, Clara Willey of Hernando, MS; her daughter, Christi Linville of Hernando, MS and her son, Paul (Yolanda) Willey of Cleveland, TN. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the American Heart Association or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

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