John E. Barnes, Jr.'s Obituary
John E. Barnes Jr. joined his wife (Ona) in heaven on Friday, May 13, 2016. He grew up in Collingdale, Pennsylvania and attended Collingdale High School. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy where he proudly served his country for 26 years. During his time in the Navy he traveled the world including tours of duty in Korea and Vietnam. His time at sea was spent on the USS Bonhomme Richard and the USS America. He retired with the rank of E8 Master Chief Petty Officer. The following years he worked as a financial advisory and credit counselor.
He spent his leisure time visiting Hawaii (23 times) and writing his autobiography “From the cobwebs of my mind”. He always had a smile on his face and loved a good joke. His philosophy was to never worry about the small stuff and it is all small stuff! He called many places home including California, Tennessee, Virginia, and Arizona. His desire to be closer to family brought him to Brandon, Florida where he spent his retirement years.He and his wife moved to the Village in Gainesville, Florida in 2013.
He will continue to live in the cherished memories of his children: Lorelei (Laurie) Porter (Gary), John Barnes III (Beth), Deborah Douglass (David Bos), 6 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, his sister Deloris Waltz (Al) and his nieces and nephews.
A celebration in recognition of his impact on the lives of his family and friends will be held on Saturday, May 28, 2016 at 10:30 a.m., at the Village Chapel. Donations can be made to Haven Hospice for the kindness and compassion they provided to him and his family, 4200 NW 90th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606.
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