Robert Lee Barnes

Robert Lee Barnes (Bob) died peacefully on February 3, 2026 at Beacon Place in Greensboro, NC. He was born on April 8, 1929 in Columbia, SC and grew up in Decatur, GA. At the age of 17, after graduating from Decatur Boys Highschool, Robert enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and was sent to China in WWII. When he returned, he earned a degree in Textile Engineering from The Georgia Institute of Technology and later in life, was inducted into their Hall of Fame for Engineering.

Robert was a hardworking man whose integrity could not be compromised. Intelligent, thoughtful and observant, he was known to quietly step in when he saw a need – never for recognition, but simply because it was the right thing to do. He was serious by nature yet always appreciated a good sense of humor. He was, above all, a true gentleman.

Above all, Robert was most proud of his daughters. He loved them deeply and without reservation. To them, he was a wonderful, caring, forgiving, and fun-loving father. His steady presence, high-standards, and unwavering support shaped their lives in lasting ways, and the bond they shared always remained one of his greatest joys.

Robert lived his life fully and with deep curiosity. He loved the outdoors and found joy in hiking and backpacking, golfing, tennis, snow skiing, sailing his sailboat, riding his motorcycle and fox hunting. An avid reader – so much so that he was affectionately nicknamed “Robert the Reader” -- he held a lifelong love of books, history (especially the Civil War), religion, painting, sculpting and travel. He was also a sentimental keeper of memories, letters, and photographs. His greatest passion, sparked by a fascination with aviation at a very young age, was flying. For most of his life, Robert piloted small airplanes, carrying that childhood wonder with him well into adulthood.

As dedicated as he was throughout his career, Robert embraced retirement with the same enthusiasm that had defined his working years. Together, he and his beloved wife, Chris, enjoyed traveling, sailing, and sharing adventures that brought them both great joy!

Robert will be remembered for his unwavering standards, and the way he carried himself— with dignity, honor, and grace. His striking blue eyes and warm smile reflected the excellence of his soul. He could be firm and exacting, wanting things done a certain way; but as hard as he could be, he loved even harder. A true gentleman in every sense of the word, his legacy lives on in the lives he shaped, the family he cherished, and the example he set. His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Jeanette Barnes; daughter Paula Barnes Griffin; sister and brother-in-law Jean and L.A. Stubing; brother John Barnes; brother-inlaw Henry Norris; and his first wife, Molly Wheeler Barnes. He is survived by his wife Carole C. Barnes (Chris); his daughters Sidney B. O’Gorman (Richard) and Elizabeth B. Taptich (Justin); grandchildren Morgan Daniel, Evan Daniel (Sarah), Rory Daniel, Molly Taptich, and Charlotte Taptich; sister-in-law Joyce B. Norris; and several dear nieces, nephews, and their families. He is also survived by his beloved dog Cixi.

Services will be announced at a later date.