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Donald Eugene Barnes peacefully transitioned from this life to eternal rest on Wednesday, April 29, 2026. He was born on August 15, 1949, in Greenville, North Carolina, to the late Willie Edward Barnes and Annie Ruth Adams Barnes. Donald was a proud graduate of C.M. Eppes High School, Class of 1966, in Greenville, North Carolina. During his time at C.M. Eppes, he was actively involved in school life. He enjoyed singing in the Glee Club under the direction of Mrs. S. L. Davenport, where he was known as her favorite tenor. He was also a member of Hi-Y, Physics Club, and Library Club, and served as a Home Room Officer. Donald continued his education at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, graduating in 1973 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science. He was proud to be an Aggie and often showed his school pride by wearing Aggie paraphernalia and enthusiastically shouting, “Aggie Pride!” Donald joined Sycamore Hill Missionary Baptist Church as a youth and dedicated his life to Christ at an early age. As a young adult, he sang in the choir, served as an usher, and was active in the Boy Scouts. In his adult years, he became a Boy Scout leader, serving as a mentor to many young men and leading them on numerous camping trips. As a faithful and longstanding member of Sycamore Hill Missionary Baptist Church for over fifty years, Donald devoted his life to service. He served on the Usher Board, participated in the Homeless Shelter Ministry, attended Sunday School, and faithfully served on the Deacon Board for more than twenty-six years. Donald met the love of his life, the former Vonzella Smith, in the late 1970s, and they were united in marriage on April 19, 1980. Together they built a loving family and were blessed with two beautiful daughters, Tenille and Ashli. Donald was committed to his professional career, working in Materials Planning and Buyer roles at EATON Corporation and TRW Automotive for over thirty years. After retiring from TRW, he later reentered the workforce for several years at DSM, serving in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. During his active adult years, Donald was an avid tennis player, recreational basketball player, and golfer. He was heavily involved with the Adams Family Reunion, serving multiple years as Vice President and President. In his later years, he enjoyed relaxing at home with his wife and spending time with his three grandchildren. Donald will be remembered for his strong faith, dedication to service, and the love he had for his family, church, and community. His legacy of leadership, mentorship, and compassion will continue to live on through all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Willie Edward and Annie Ruth Barnes, and his devoted brother, James Earl “Jimmy” Barnes. He leaves to cherish his precious memories: his loving and devoted wife of forty-six years, Vonzella Smith Barnes, of the home; two daughters, Tenille Barnes McFadden (Corey) of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Ashli Barnes Jaroscak (Joseph) of Washington, D.C.; and three grandchildren, Brayden and Zayne of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Sophie of Washington, D.C. He is also survived by two sisters, Annette Barnes Parker (Clifton) of Jamestown, North Carolina, and Keisha Barnes of North Chesterfield, Virginia; two aunts: Velma Bratton of Thomasville, North Carolina and Linda J. Adams of Greensboro, North Carolina; Goddaughter, Phelicia Price of Greenville, North Carolina; and a host of beloved inlaws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Donald Eugene Barnes will be deeply missed, but his memory and legacy will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched.

Tributes

Mr. Donald E. Barnes

August 15, 1949 - April 29, 2026