Elm City –

George "G.W." Barnes, Sr., age 93, passed away peacefully Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at Autumn Care of Nash in Nashville, North Carolina. His journey began on April 19, 1932 in Nash County, son of George and Estelle Joyner Barnes. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of sixty-eight years, Dorothy Eason Barnes and siblings, Margaret Holland, Jean Williams, Marthann Tyson and Mary Lucy Minshew.

He leaves a lifetime of treasured memories for his son, Willard Barnes Jr. (Donna) of Rocky Mount; daughter, Connie Barnes Williams (Rich) of Raleigh; granddaughter, Katie Webb and great-granddaughter, Coraline Webb, both of Rocky Mount; siblings, Samuel Barnes (Christine), Doris Voller, Libby Faroux, Joyce Faye Minshew (Bobby), Sherrill Enroughty, Brenda Radford (Mike) and Kathy Watson (Mike); along with several nieces, nephews and other extended relatives.

G.W. was born into a large family of twelve siblings who he loved immensely. The importance of family values was an important part of his upbringing, later shaping his character and work ethic. The dedication he learned through his family was further exemplified with a 44-year career with Rocky Mount Cord Mill where he made many lasting relationships. During his career and after retirement, G.W. found a hobby in craftsmanship and wood working. Over the years he completed projects such as a pier, his workshop, playhouse, arbor and boat lift, all designed from his own blueprints. Known affectionately as "Mr. Fix-it," he thrived on staying active and working with his hands.

Life for G.W. got sweeter when he moved to Lake Gaston. He embraced the community and thoroughly enjoyed the many years he spent there. He loved hosting gatherings, from pig pickings to fish fries, and his 4th of July cookouts were legendary, often drawing over a hundred family members and an abundance of delicious food. G.W.'s warm spirit and generosity will be immensely missed by all who had the fortune of knowing him.

A service to celebrate G.W.'s wonderful life will be at 2:00pm on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at Dortches Baptist Church, 4776 Dortches Blvd, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 1:00pm.

Flowers are welcome or memorial donations may be made in G.W.'s memory to Dortches Baptist Church.