Thomas Barnes

Born in Highlands, N.C., he was the son of the late Rev. Harvey Rondal and Charlotte Tilson Barnes. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Helen Bertilee Pendergrass and Eloise Bryson; and one brother, Charles Barnes; also, a much loved brother-in-law, Homer Bryson.

Earlin was of the Baptist faith. He loved hunting, wood working, and most of all spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be remembered for his stone masonry craftsmanship with Barnes Masonry and his wood crafting with Barnes Hand Crafted Wood Working.

He is survived by his wife, Janice Snow Barnes of Franklin, N.C.; two sons, James Lester Barnes of Barkers Creek, N.C., and Thomas Kyle Barnes (Cindy) of Sylva, N.C.; two daughters, Bridjett Barnes of Franklin, N.C., and Rebecca Guthrie (Jon) of Gulf Shores, Ala.; and two sisters, Edith Victorine of Thomasville, Ga., and Ella Rebecca Suter of Alexandria, Va. Also surviving are his 11 grandchildren, Amanda Brooks, Campbell Barnes, Luke Barnes, Austin Queen, Meghan Partain, Alyssa Chandler, Hannah Guthrie, Sarah Guthrie, Noah Guthrie, Leah Guthrie and Emmah Guthrie; six great-grandchildren, Maya, Noam, Nora, Adam, Thomas and John; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 19, in the chapel of Macon Funeral Home. Rev. Roy Lowe will officiate.

The family will receive friends, from 2 to 3 p.m., one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

While we will dearly miss Thomas, also known as Paw, his favorite most cherished role, we will remember him as the Godly, wise, and courageous man who never failed to show us his ever-faithful love. Thomas trusted in the Lord with all his heart and led his family with that faith and love. His life was a testimony of his faith in his loving Savior, Jesus Christ.

2 Timothy 4:7-8:

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day, and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Hospice House Foundation of WNC, P.O. Box 815, Franklin, NC 28744.

Online condolences can be left at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.