Robert E Barnes

Robert E Barnes, 89, passed away on October 24, 2026. Born July 29, 1937, in Abels Springs, Texas, Robert was the son of Harlan Barnes and Bernice Jahnes Barnes. He later made his home in Bryan, Texas, where his steady presence and devoted care for those around him were deeply felt.

Robert attended school in Terrell, Texas, where he graduated from high school. On April 12, 1958, he married Johnnie Ruth Ondrasek. In the years that followed, Robert built a life marked by commitment—both to his family and to the work of serving others with reliability and pride.

Robert served in the Texas National Guard for 14 years. In 1968, he opened Barnes Conoco and Auto Repair, and in 1969 he built a shop and opened Barnes Garage. He operated the business until selling the shop in 1993, leaving behind a legacy of honest work and perseverance.

In quieter seasons, Robert found renewal in the mountains, spending summers and falls in Colorado at his beloved cabin. He was also a faithful member of A&M Church of Christ, where he had been a member since 1985.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Herbert “Slick” Barnes; and his sister, Virginia Barnes Gilmore.

He is survived by his wife, Johnnie Ruth Barnes; his son, Kirk Barnes, and daughter-in-law Beth Barnes; his son, Kent Barnes, and daughter-in-law Kris Barnes; his granddaughter, Cara Barnes Ashman, and Mike Ashman; his grandson, Colton Barnes, and Kali Barnes; his grandson, Austin Barnes, and Ashleigh Barnes; his grandson, Kyle Barnes, and Melissa Barnes; Brian Barnes; six great-grandchildren; and one great-grandchild due in February 2027.

The visitation and funeral service will be held at Memorial Funeral Chapel, 1515 South College Avenue, Bryan, Texas 77801, on October 30, 2026, visitation will be from 9:00 am. until 10:00 am. with the funeral service beginning at 10:00 am. Interment will follow at Bryan City Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Kirk Barnes, Kent Barnes, Colton Barnes, Austin Barnes, Kyle Barnes, and Brian Barnes.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Arcara Hospice Foundation, PO Box 101 Bryan, TX 77806.