Tommy Barnes

HICKORY – James Thomas Barnes, affectionately known as Tommy , age 72, was born on Sunday, February 10, 1952 in Hickory, North Carolina. He passed away on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Frye Regional Medical Center.

Tommy Barnes was one of the first children in the state of NC to successfully undergo open heart surgery. Fittingly, Tommy developed a lifelong big-heartedness towards others. Whether it was nickels at the slot car track, tickets to ball games for friends, or the shirt off his back, Tommy found tremendous joy in looking out for others.

The Lord teaches “it’s more blessed to give than to receive.” Time and again throughout his life, Tommy proved this precept true. Now, seeing his Lord face to face, he knows the source from where all that joy flowed.

He was a member of East Hickory Church currently named Hope Hickory Church.

Tommy lived a life that reflected commitment and love, both in his family relations and work endeavors. His work career spanned 40 years, including 15 years as a long-haul truck driver and 25 years working at Windy City Grill in Hickory, NC/ While working at Windy City Grill he made countless lasting friendships with customers.

Tommy is survived by his beloved family members, his brother, Rick Barnes and wife Candy and brother, Gary Barnes. He is also remembered by his nieces and nephews, David, Danielle, Kendra, Nick and Carley, as well as several great nieces and nephews and uncle Henry Ward and wife Lib.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence Hall Barnes and Mary Ward Barnes. Tommy was also preceded by his brother, Toby Barnes and sister Sandy Barnes.

Tommy will be deeply missed, remembered for his kindness, his unwavering support for his loved ones, and the joy he brought into their lives.

A graveside burial will be held Thursday, February 6, 2025 at 10 AM at Catawba Memorial Park, 3010 US Hwy 70 SE, Hickory, NC. Following, a memorial service will be held at 11 AM at Hope Hickory Church, 130 16th St. SE, Hickory NC (formerly East Hickory Church), officiated by Pastor Mark Schmitz. A reception will be held in the church fellowship hall following the memorial service.

Condolences may be sent to www.catawbamemorialpark.com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Catawba Memorial Park, Funerals & Cremations.