James Lee Barnes

James Lee Barnes, age 77, passed away on Monday, December 1, 2025, at Lee County Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Beattyville, Kentucky. He was born on Thursday, September 30, 1948, in Mount Sterling, Kentucky, to the late Floyd Barnes and the late Della Mae Sexton Barnes Hendrix. Jim spent a significant part of his career working at the Bluegrass Army Depot as a diligent Factory Worker. He also worked for Continental Metal Specialty, taking on the role of Manager, and for Holbart's, where he served as a Supervisor, demonstrating a keen sense of organization and responsibility. Beyond his professional life, Jim had a passion for playing pool. He not only enjoyed the game but also actively participated in several tournaments, showcasing his competitive spirit and love for the sport. In addition to his hobbies, Jim was deeply connected to the world of horses. He dedicated his time to raising Kentucky Mountain Horses, finding joy in their graceful movements and gentle nature. On his farm, Jim cultivated tobacco and soybeans while also raising pigs and other livestock, embodying the hard-working spirit of rural life. Known for his kindness and generosity, he was beloved by many and always made time to help others in need. Jim's soft-hearted nature made him a pillar of support for everyone around him. Family was everything to Jim. He cherished his loved ones and embraced his role as a devoted grandfather, serving as an exemplary role model for his grandchildren, who held a special place in his heart. He also took it upon himself to care for his siblings, often seen as the responsible one, consistently offering support and guidance, ensuring that those he loved were always taken care of. Jim's life was a tapestry woven with love, dedication, and compassion. In addition to his parents, Jim is preceded in death by three brothers: Richard Barnes, Tony Barnes, and Tommy Sexton; three sisters: Darlene Holder, Ana Lou Wages, and Ruby Cundiff; his stepfather: Virgil Hendrix; and one stepbrother: Ova J. Hendrix. He is survived by his wife, Arlinda Barnes, of Stanton; two sons: James (Dorinda) Barnes, Jr., of Mount Sterling, and Gabriel (Penny) Barnes, of Clay City; one daughter: Danielle (Brian) Ogawa, of Scottsdale, Arizona; one brother: Rodney Sexton of Mount Sterling; three sisters: Mary Ruth Patton, and Barbara Jean Oaks, both of Mount Sterling, and Beulah Banks, of Jeffersonville; six grandchildren: Collin Barnes, Amelia Barnes, Sarah Barnes, Jesse Watkins, Logan Watkins, and Whitney Barnes; and four great-grandchildren: Rylee Watkins, Navy Watkins, Josie Watkins, and Millie Watkins. Visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Hearne Funeral Home, 125 West College Avenue, Stanton, Kentucky. Funeral services, officiated by Bro. Brad Epperson will be held at the funeral home at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, December 5, 2025. Burial will be held at Elkins Cemetery, Upper Cane Creek Road, Stanton, Kentucky, with James Barnes, Jr., Gabriel Barnes, Collin Barnes, Charles Barnes, Kevin Perry, and Brent Patton serving as active pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Jesse Watkins, Logan Watkins, Chris Tomlin, Dave Fenner, Jim Carpenter, Darrell Wasson, Albert Patton, Nick Moore, and Paul Moore. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hearne Funeral Home of Stanton.