Bennett "Ben" Gordon Barnes Jr.

Bennett "Ben" Barnes Jr., 70, of Langhorne, PA, cast his final line into life’s tranquil waters on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, after a valiant 38-year battle with Parkinson's disease. A man of profound integrity and quiet strength, Ben was the beloved patriarch of his family.

Born to Bennet Sr. and Leonarda (Lee Shovarsky) Barnes, Ben grew up surrounded by a loving family. He graduated from Hazleton High in 1973 and later earned a degree in Environmental Management from Penn State. Ben dedicated many years of his career to environmental protection, working first at the Bucks County Health Department and then at the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJ-DEP) for over 20 years until his well-deserved retirement.

Beyond his work, Ben's life was enriched by his love for the outdoors, his hands often found in the soil of his garden or holding a fishing rod. He was a bowler with a keen eye for strikes, and a phanatical supporter of Philadelphia sports, he shared his passions generously with those around him.

Ben leaves behind a legacy of love and steadfastness with his wife of 48 years, Darlene (Hall) Barnes, and their children, his sunshines, Jessica (Benjamin) Estep, Valerie (TJ) Seccia, and Andrew Barnes. His grandchildren Dylan, Vincent, and Lillianna will forever cherish the memories created with their grandfather. He is also survived by his siblings Robert (Lynn) Barnes, Mary (Lee) Liken, Walter (Rosann) Barnes, and Sue (Brian) Smutney. Ben’s strength and grace were cherished by his in-laws Patrick Jr and Alice Hall, brother-in-law Patrick (Leslie) Hall and sister in law Shirley (Byron) Crowell. He will further be remembered by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

In remembrance of Ben's enduring spirit, please consider a donation to the Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center at Penn Hospital. These contributions will honor his memory by supporting ongoing research and care for those affected by the illness he faced with such admirable fortitude.

A visitation for Bennett will be held Tuesday, August 19, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial beginning at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 225 Bellevue Ave, Penndel, PA 19047. Interment to follow at Our Lady of Grace Cemetery, 1215 Super Highway, Langhorne, PA 19047.