Jimmy Barnes

Jimmy E. Barnes passed away on July 15, 2026, at Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva, NC. He was born July 15, 1932 in Sylva, NC, son of the late Fred and Noba Barnes.

Jim served his country in the US Army during the Korean War for 2 years at Fort Rucker, Alabama, and returned to Sylva after his military service, working for many years as a mechanic for Buster Brown and later Skyland Textiles from which he retired. Jim married his wife, Evelyn, on January 25, 1957, and they shared a long life together until her death in March 2022, raising 3 children.

Jim is survived by his brother, Joe Barnes of Sylva, NC, and his sister, Linda Jiles of Waynesville, NC. He was preceded in death by his brother, Glenn, and sisters Geraldine, Helen, and Palmella.

Jim is also survived by children Sandra Woodard of Whittier, NC, Dale Barnes of Mebane, NC, and David Barnes of Jefferson City, TN. Along with his children, Jim is survived by his grandchildren Luke Barnes, Jacob Barnes, and Sarah Barnes, as well as one great grandchild, Declan Barnes.

As all who knew him would agree, Jim was a very reserved and quiet man. As a result, his family are honoring his wishes to live on in the hearts of those who knew him without the fanfare of a formal gathering. The family expresses their deepest gratitude for the calls and prayers that have been and continue to be sent their way.