William (Bill) David Barnes, Jr., 71, walked into the arms of his Lord and Savior on September 2, 2026. Born on March 10, 1955, in Uravan, Colorado, Bill was the beloved son of the late William David Barnes, Sr. and Marie Moats Barnes.
He graduated from Warrensburg-Latham High School in Warrensburg, Illinois, before earning his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Millikin University. Driven by his deep faith and desire to serve others, he later earned his Master of Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary.
In 1979, Bill married Luann Marie Kaley, the lifelong love of his life. Together, they built a life centered on faith, devotion, and family, and were blessed with three lovely daughters.
He was an active member of Mt. Horeb Church in Lexington, SC and participated in the Well Men’s Ministry group. A true mentor and teacher, he made an indelible impact on countless lives. Bill was a rare combination of a deep, substantive thinker who took truth seriously, but never took himself too seriously. Quick-witted, honest, and warm, his humor and genuine nature instantly put those around him at ease—he never met a stranger.
Above all, Bill poured his heart into investing in the people in his life as a son, husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and steadfast friend.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William David Barnes, Sr. and Marie Moats Barnes.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Luann Barnes of Lexington; his three daughters: Meghan Sanders of Lexington, Brittany Wheeler of Austin, Texas, and Sheila Williams of Bradford, Illinois; his six cherished grandchildren: Jonah and Quinn Sanders, Elliott and Isaac Wheeler, and Xander Barnes and Sophie Williams; and his sisters: Glenna Barnes of Decatur, Illinois, Leslie Barnes West of North Fort Myers, Florida, and Rhonda Barnes Hott of Decatur, Illinois.
A memorial service will be held at Mt. Horeb Church in Lexington, SC on Saturday, September 12, with visitation starting at 1:00 PM and the service beginning at 2:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Bill's memory to the Mt. Horeb Church Missions Ministry.
