William Ray Barnes

William “Ray” Barnes, 79, of Wilson passed away Tuesday, May 21, 2024.   His funeral services will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 23, 2024, at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 1815 Airport Boulevard W, Wilson.  A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, May 24, 2024, in Evergreen Memorial Park, Wilson.  The Rev. Joe Shakour and Rev. Randy Jones will officiate.

The family will receive friends Thursday evening immediately following the service at Tabernacle Baptist Church, Wilson, and other times at the residence.

Ray loved his church and family more than life itself.  He was an avid sports enthusiast, especially the Duke Blue Devils and the St. Louis Cardinals.  Ray enjoyed dining at restaurants with his wife, Louise, and friends.  He was a wonderful husband, father, papa, and friend to all who knew him.  He will be missed dearly.

Ray is survived by his loving wife of fifty-five years, Louise Fulghum Barnes of the home; daughters, Jennifer Bryant and husband, David of Wilson, Jamie Barnes of Wilson, and Joni Tyson and husband, Jason of Wilson; grandchildren, Joshua Bryant, Taylor Overby and husband, Craig, Mackenzie Tyson, and Cayden Tyson; great-grandchildren, Lainey Bryant, Madelyn Bryant, and Brayden Overby.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Horace and Mavis Flowers Barnes.

The family would like to extend their thanks and gratitude to ECU Health and Transplant Team for their care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials in Ray’s memory to Tabernacle Baptist Church, 1815 Airport Boulevard W, Wilson, North Carolina 27893.

Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.