Othel Hayden “Barney” Barnes, 84, passed away July 31, 2026, in West Plains, Missouri. Barney was born May 29, 1942, to the late Omer Hayden Barnes and Viola Brawley Barnes. He was united in marriage to Mary “Sue” Barnes on July 3, 1965. As a young man, he served his country as a medic in the U.S. Army.
Barney had a long career working for BNSF Railroad as a clerk in the Thayer depot. Following his retirement, he kept busy working at the local pawn shop, Many Islands Camp & Canoe Rental, and Harps grocery store.
In his earlier years, Barney was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing, hunting, hiking, backpacking, camping, and golf. He and Sue enjoyed driving the back roads, finding places to day hike, explore, and enjoy together. He also enjoyed stamp collecting, and in later years, developed a deep interest in firearms—learning about their history and craftsmanship, collecting, reading articles and forums, and staying informed on issues related to gun rights. Barney was a faithful member of the Church of Christ in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas.
Barney is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Jamie and Billie, and his grandson, Alex. He was preceded in death by his parents; his two brothers, Lynn Barnes and Jim Barnes; and his beloved wife of 58 years, Sue.
The Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, August 6, at 10:30 a.m. in the Carter Funeral Home Chapel in Thayer, Missouri. The service will be officiated by Barry O’Dell, minister. Pallbearers will be Kevin Hedden, Jerry Johnson, Steve Simers, Derek Hufstedler, Alex Barnes, and Wade Weems. Honorary Pallbearer is Jerry French.
Barney was a firm believer in being comfortable, and anyone who knew him knew he was never a fan of wearing a suit and tie—so in Barney’s honor, comfortable attire is warmly welcomed—open collars included.
Interment will follow at the Davis Cemetery in Thayer, with services under the direction of Carter Funeral Home Inc.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Children’s Homes, Inc. in Paragould, Arkansas.
Children’s Homes, Inc.
5515 Walcott Road
Paragould, Arkansas 72450
870-239-4031
August 1, 2026 @ 10:28 am
Sorry to hear of Barney’s passing. I worked with him a number of years with the railroad and got know him rather well.
August 7, 2026 @ 5:16 pm
Barney was the best neighbor ever! He would share his smoked ribs with us and never once complained about the rooster -Ha ha! We will miss him and want you to know just how highly we thought of him,