Michael Alan Barnes, 56, of Ronceverte, WV, passed away peacefully at home with his family after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born in Burlington, NC, Mike was a proud graduate of the University of North Carolina School of Pharmacy. While attending college, he often joked that one day he would move to West Virginia, find a lovely wife, and raise a family in the middle of the woods. And that’s exactly what he did.
Mike worked as a pharmacist at Greenbrier Valley Medical Center for 32 years. When he was not checking medication lists and troubleshooting the Pyxis/Omnicell machines, Mike could be found laughing with his coworkers while critiquing the music playlist on the pharmacy’s speaker. He often bragged that his coworkers cooked some of the best foods.
Outside of work, Mike found great joy in exploring the outdoors. He especially enjoyed deer hunting with his son, cherishing the time they spent together in the woods. One of his favorite pastimes was spending time fishing along the Greenbrier River and the Carolina coast, even if, by his own admission, he rarely caught a fish. He also loved foraging for mushrooms and took great pride in growing his own shiitakes.
Every fall and winter, he could be found cheering on the Tar Heels while enjoying Carolina barbecue – the only real barbecue, as far as he was concerned. Mike loved coaching youth football and mentoring young people, always taking the time to encourage, guide, and make a lasting impact on those around him. Above all else, Mike was a devoted husband, father, and friend.
He is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Marie; his son, Dr. Brandon Barnes of Wilmington, NC; and his daughter, Dr. Katie Barnes of Chicago, IL, and her husband, Benjamin Sevald. He also leaves behind his sister, Cindy Palmer, and her husband, Jon Palmer; his sisters-in-law, Babbe Barnes and Jackie Burwell; his mother-in-law, Betty Burwell; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Edwin Barnes; his mother, Shirley Barnes; and his brother, Stephen Barnes.
Though we will miss him dearly, his love, laughter, and memory will live on in all of us. In honor of Mike, please enjoy a Carolina sunset, cheer on the Tar Heels, and spend a sunny afternoon in the woods. Most of all, cherish the people you love and the time you have together.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to consider making a donation to your local animal shelter in Mike’s memory. Mike always had a special place in his heart for animals, especially those in need.
Visitation will be held Saturday, Aug. 29, at Rhema Christian Center, 3584 Davis Stuart Road, Lewisburg, WV, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Funeral service will immediately follow at 1 p.m. with Pastor Stewart Farley officiating.
An online guestbook can be signed at www.morganfh.net. Arrangements entrusted to Morgan Funeral Home, Lewisburg, WV.
