Howard Jerome Barnes

Howard Jerome Barnes, 86, a lifelong resident of Fayetteville, Arkansas, passed away March 7, 2016 at the Willard Walker Hospice Home in Fayetteville. He was born June 6, 1929 in Dodge, Oklahoma to Robert Wesley Barnes and Bertha Ardeth Hanna Barnes, of whom he was the youngest child. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Maurice; and two sisters, Juanita Steele and Catherine Lierly; as well as the love of his life, Barbara K. Hilburn Barnes. Howard is survived by a daughter, Karen K. Barnes; two sons, Bob and wife, Debbie Barnes and Steve (Bo) Barnes; and former daughter-in-law, Carol Cribbins Barnes; and three grandchildren, Mistie Barnes, Brooklyn Barnes and Tanner Barnes. Howard is a graduate of Fayetteville High School. He then enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard, where he became the Officer in Charge of Long Island New York's Plum Island Light Station. Following military service, Howard returned to Fayetteville, where he married Barbara K. Hilburn, his wife of 61 years. He founded Howard Barnes Livestock Trucking, which he operated from 1954 until 2012, when he retired to care for Barbara. In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations be made to the Willard Walker Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Friday, March 11, 2016 at Beard's Chapel with burial immediately following at the Fayetteville National Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, March 10, 2016 at Beard's Chapel. Condolences at www.beardsfuneralchapel.com.