Federal Barnes

Mr. Federal “Fed/Red” Barnes was born April 17, 1935, to the late Rev. Archie L. Barnes and Versie (Julie) Belcher Barnes, both of Elba, Alabama.  He was the eldest of eight children born to this union.  He married Ms. Christine Knox and began a life together that lasted 33 years and produced six children. Federal departed this life on Tuesday, March 23, 2021. Federal accepted Christ at an early age and became a member of Rocky Head Baptist Church. He remained a faithful member until his death.  Federal was a loyal employee of Dorsey Trailers for more than 40 years. Federal Barnes was a true family man, who absolutely loved his wife and children. He was a doting grandfather, who adored all of his grandchildren and received their fervent love in return. Even during times of illness and after his grandchildren were adults, he was known to ask, “Have you checked on the children?”  Federal was a beloved resident of the Mulberry Heights community. He was the kind of neighbor who would do anything that he could to help others. Affectionately known as “Fed or Red,” he will be remembered for his sense of humor and his hearty, distinctive laugh. His generous spirit and friendly nature will be missed by all who knew and loved him.  Federal was proceeded in death by his parents; his loving wife Christine Barnes and his eldest son Teddy Barnes; three brothers, Zerrall (Ike) Barnes, Joseph Barnes and Nathaniel Barnes; and two sisters Sarah A. Barnes Magwood and Jeanette Siler. His memories will be cherished by his three sons - Terry W. Barnes and Frederick Barnes of Elba, AL, and Perry Barnes of Jacksonville, FL; two daughters – Florence A. Barnes of Montgomery, AL and Melanie A. Barnes of Clarksville, TN; his brother, Murray (Phyllis) Barnes of Elba, AL, and his sister Zenear Barnes of Hemstead, NY; his brother-in-law, William “Bill” Knox and sister-in-law, Edna Gains, both of Gary, IN; eight grandchildren – Demaris L. Barnes, Sheldon D. Green, Shannon Phillips, Tranessa Caldwell, Christina (Tony) Nicholson, Tiffney (Shug) Green Waters, Christopher Green and Nicholas C. Green; nine great-grandchildren; his “adopted” daughters, Reedie Russell and Liz Boyd; nieces, nephews, and a host of relatives and friends.

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