Gary Lamar Barnes was born in Evans County Georgia , December 20, 1950. His mother Mary Barnes and stepfather Henry Ruffin both preceded him in death. He departed this life on Monday, February 15, 2010 at his home in Chesapeake , Va.

A native of Claxton , Georgia , Gary graduated Claxton high school joining the US Navy soon after. He attended Georgia Southern College where he met his wife of 27 years, Shirley Reeder Barnes. Gary graduated in 1999 from old Dominion University with a BS degree in Criminal Justice. Gary worked for Alternative Behavioral system at the Pines Treatment facility in Portsmouth , Va. and at the VA hospital as a Departmental Service Officer for the DAV prior to his illness. Gary was an active member of J. Robert Graham DAV chapter 26 where he served as a Vice Commander and Chapter Service Officer for several years. Gary was passionate about helping those in need and exemplified this passion in his work with veterans and teens.

He leaves to cherish his memories; a wife, Mrs. Shirley A. Barnes, a son, Kaiser Lamar Barnes and Daughter-in-Law, Alicia Barnes of Hinesville , Ga , a daughter, Kim Barnes-McBride and Son-in-Law, Stacey McBride of Statesboro , Ga. , Daughter Xaviera Mary Barnes of Chesapeake , VA. Four grandchildren, Kortni Ellis, Adonis Barnes, Deasha McBride, and Sherya McBride, and a host of friends and comrades.

A memorial service will be held 1pm Monday at First Baptist Church Campostella, 1510 Conoga Street, Norfolk, with Chaplain Horace Roundtree officiating. Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home, Chesapeake is in charge of arrangements.