Thomas Russell Barnes, Jr. was born on March 8, 1977 to Rusty and Wanda Barnes in Decatur, Ga. He passed from this earth and into the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on January 5, 2022.
Rusty is preceded in death by grandparents Fred & Eva Franks, grandmother Carolyn P. Brooks, and Aunt Michelle Wilson, Uncle Terry Barnes and two cousins.
He is survived by his wife, Susan, of 23 years, his sons: Nathan (19), Brody (17), and Cadyn (15); parents, Rusty & Wanda Barnes; brother Jason & wife, Jessie; nieces Madison & Kiley, and nephew Jake; and several aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family.
Russell, known as Rusty to those who loved him, grew up in Stockbridge, Ga. and played rec baseball at Rex Park for 9 years. Rusty graduated from Stockbridge High School in 1995 and has also received degrees from Clayton State University and Liberty University.
It was while in high school that he met the love of his life, Susan Helton. After dating for 7 years, they were engaged for a year and were married on July 10, 1999.
Rusty and Susan have been faithful members of Southern Crescent Baptist Church for 23 years, where Rusty taught middle school Sunday School for 19 years. In that time, he has had a tremendous influence on countless youth for the glory of God.
Rusty was passionate about many things, but loving his family was his greatest joy.
For the last 24 years, Rusty has worked for Norfolk Southern Railroad.
Visitation will be Friday, January 14th from 3-5 at Sharon Baptist Church with a Celebration of Life Service to follow at 5 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, contributions are asked to be made to the Southern Crescent Baptist Church Youth Ministry in memory of Rusty.
