Dale Ray Barnes

Dale Ray Barnes, 82, of Edmond, Oklahoma, passed peacefully into heaven on Friday, November 8, 2024. He was a faithful husband, father, and Christian who was born November 28, 1941, in Paola, Kansas to Noah and Evelyn Barnes. Dale attended Elementary North School. Graduated Paola High School in 1959. He attended Baker University, Fort Hays State College, York College in Nebraska, Ottawa University and graduated from Oklahoma Christian College with a degree in Bible in 1964. There was a sense of pride to be first to graduate from college in his family and to grow bigger and taller since his parents were medium build and less. Dale’s stature was 6 foot and his uncles always complimented and joked about how big he was.

When 19 years old in college, Dale preached on Sundays at a small church in Paola. Through the years Dale filled the pulpit when asked, and also had a license to marry couples and reside at funerals. To be a full-time minister didn’t work out since his dad wanted him to get a job right away and off his sofa. Noah, through a relative, found a job for Dale and told him to take it! However, “the Lord’s work” was always his passion.

Dale married Margaret Ann Weaver, daughter of James Francis and Evelyn Weaver September 19, 1965. They established their home together in Neodosha, Kansas where Dale was employed. They were blessed with two daughters, Sheri Dawn Mitchell and Debra Ann Wagner and three grandchildren Cole, Paige and Nolan. He was also cherished by his sons-in-law, Whit Mitchell and Todd Wagner.

Dale began his career as a social worker in Wilson County, Kansas. Later when the state took over the welfare program, he was assigned to various administrative positions. At the time of his retirement in 1997 he was the Director of Quality Control for Social Services for the State of Kansas. While working full time, he attended Washburn University and the University of Kansas, graduating with a Masters Degree in Public Administration.

During his employment, he was president of Rotary Club, president of Southeast Kansas Welfare and Social Workers Association, and president of Southeast Kansas Welfare Directors Association. He also received a note of appreciation from the State for his work in improving community relations in his county. He was a member of the American Truck Historical Society. He was a church deacon and elder. He found joy in traveling, especially along the iconic Route 66. His love for reading, trucks, and trains was well known among his family and friends, and his enthusiasm for life was infectious.

Dale was preceded in death by his sister Sharon Stuteville and his parents. He is survived by his wife, Margaret, his daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren, his brothers-in-law, Phil Weaver and Mike Weaver, as well as many friends who were touched by his kindness and faith.

A funeral service for Dale will be held 10:00 am Monday, November 18, 2024 at Memorial Park Funeral Home, 13313 North Kelley Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73131. Guests are invited to wear flannel and jeans in honor of Dale.