Raymond Darrell Barnes

Raymond was preceded in death by his mother Ada (Jowers) Barnes, father Raymond Newt Barnes, sister Doris and brother Don.

Raymond is survived by his loving wife of 46 years; Betty. His three daughters; Maribeth, Kristin (Jeff DeWalt) and Teri (George Ramirez). Grandchildren; Peyton, Andrew, Brandon, Joseph and Megan. Sister; Dayna (Tommy Spradlin) and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins whom he loved very much.

Raymond was known most of his life by his middle name, Darrell. Darrell was born in 1942 in the town of Quanah, Texas. When people would remark that they had never heard of Quanah he would reply “Haven’t you ever heard of Quanah Parker? – the last Comanche Chief, the town was named after him”. Quanah was a wonderful town and Darrell had an exciting and at time mischievous life in it. He excelled in sports where he played basketball and football. Darrell made the Fort Worth Star Telegram’s All State team and was nominated for the Texas Sports Writers All-State team. His senior year the football team made it all the way to the State Championship. Although they lost, he was extremely proud of this accomplishment and the memories that he shared with his lifelong teammates and friends. Although he would soon leave Quanah he would remain in contact with these friends for the remainder of his life. He was truly proud and honored by each and every one of their friendships.

Shortly after high school graduation he married Luann Merrick with whom he had one daughter Maribeth. In 1968 he married Betty Caldwell and they had two daughters; Kristin and Teri.

He entered the United States Army in 1962. His military career spanned 23 years and included extensive overseas travel. He received numerous awards, nominations, and Meritorious Service Medals and other commendations. Darrell was proud to serve our country and did so to the best of his ability. He retired in 1986 having achieved the rank of a Chief Warrant Officer 3.

Once retired, Darrell completed his college degree at the University of Texas at San Antonio. After college completion he obtained his Real Estate license and began selling houses in the San Antonio area. Although Real Estate kept him very busy he developed an interest in raising ostriches. Ostriches proved to be an exciting adventure for the entire family. His next adventure came as a result of his search for better health for his grandson Andrew. This led him to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. After witnessing positive results for his grandson, Darrell decided to enter into a new career by opening San Antonio Hyperbarics in 2001. At this time his heath began to decline as a result of liver damage that was first diagnosed while in the Army. The damage rapidly progressed to the point where he needed a liver transplant. Darrell received this transplant through a living donor, his daughter Kristin in August 2002. He was able to spend the next few years enjoying life with his family and friends by fishing, traveling and going to Las Vegas.

Raymond Darrell Barnes was an amazing soul who will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was devoted to family and enjoyed countless hours spent with his grandkids. His positive outlook on life and his persevering spirit was admired by all. He will be remembered as someone who, although larger than life, was a gentle giant.

The family would like to thank all of the doctors, nurses and staff at San Antonio Military Medical Center (SAMMC) for their years of continued dedication and compassion.

Funeral services will be held at Sunset Funeral home located at 1701 Austin Highway. A visitation will take place Thursday February 26th from 5pm-8pm. Funeral Services will be held on February 27th at noon with interment to follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.