Johnny Dale Barnes

Obituary: Johnny Dale Barnes, 68, left his earthly life on October 4th, 2015. He has rolled down the windows, cranked up THAT OLD TIME ROCK AND ROLL and gone cruising. "Johnny B" always did everything with style. The gentle, soft-spoken man did not have an easy life. From a very young age, he learned to face each day with grace, strength and determination. Never one to complain, he found joy in life's simple pleasures. He was the one man I measured all men against. He was THE WIND BENEATH MY WINGS. In his professional life, he was a master craftsman. Owner of Barnes Construction Company, he made a living doing what he loved. In business as well as in life, he wanted things done right. He worked hard and played hard. His hobbies included hunting, stock car racing, and SHAGGING ON THE BOULEVARD. In Landis where he grew up, neighbors referred to him as "That darn Barnes boy" when he came home late at night driving his black 1957 Chevy. Its loud mufflers earned him 19 muffler tickets (Which he stuffed in the glove compartment). A die-hard Chevrolet man, he once bought two that came in on the hauler on the same day. By far, his favorite Chevrolet was the 57 "Bandit". The trophy shelves are laden with honors. Just like Johnny, the car was a classic and led an exemplary life. The tail-lights are twinkling as they turn this last corner. GOODNIGHT SWEETHEART, GOODNIGHT. A 1965 graduate of South Rowan High, during his football years his speed earned him the name "Smokin' Johnny Barnes" He was awarded the MVP trophy. God bless THE BOYS OF FALL. An Army veteran, Johnny was proud of his country. IT'S A WONDERFUL WORLD is how he described it. Aside from a brief stay in the Army when he was 19, he has been a lifelong North Carolina resident. The residents at Genesis Healthcare loved to have him call Bingo because he always brought extra quarters. He gave away extra "bonus bucks" during the monthly auction. His volunteer efforts upset the whole financial system. Johnny knew how to LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL showing up often to dance with the ladies, paint the resident's country store, visit with friends or do whatever was needed. Johnny Dale Barnes was born January 18, 1947. His father was John Colen Barnes and his mother was Helen Louise Price. Both have been patiently waiting for him to finish his earthly work and join them in a better place. SIXTEEN CANDLES will light the way. Mr. B leaves behind an extended family of much loved relatives and many friends who became family by association. We will forever remember his honesty, the sideways smile, the gentle southern voice and always-the sound of his laughter. AIN'T NOTHING LIKE THE REAL THING. The family wishes to thank all our precious EARTH ANGLES-our wonderful caregivers. Your unending dedication, loyalty and willingness to work through hard circumstances gave us the precious gift of having Johnny at home throughout his long illness. Because of you, he was able to remain in his own home surrounded by people who loved him dearly and cared for him with great compassion. He was allowed to pass gently and peacefully from a world he was familiar with and comfortable in. Your care was exceptional and we can never fully express our gratitude for the last gift you gave us. Interment will be private. There will be a Celebration of Life in lieu of a funeral service. Caregivers and friends who visited and /or assisted with care will be asked to be our guests at one of Johnny's favorite places, Gary's Barbeque in CHINA GROVE. We will have reserve seats in the dining room over-looking the Hot Rod showcase that Johnny built. Family and friends will celebrate the life of a man who spoke no evil of anyone, gave to those less fortunate, and left a beautiful legacy of integrity, love, kindness and laughter. A public visitation and Celebration of Life will be held at Whitley's Funeral Home on Thursday, October 8th, 2015. The time will be from 5-7 pm. If you would like to send flowers please arrange to send bulbs, a bush or plant that can go into a memorial garden that is being created for Johnny. We ask that you play a song in Johnny's memory. In his honor, do a kindness for someone who is burdened. Cherish the memories. Share a "Johnny B" story with someone who could benefit from the laughter. Things that you hold in your heart are never lost. THIS IS DEDICATED TO THE ONE I LOVE YOU ARE MY HEART AND SOUL'S INSPIRATION
Visitation: 5-7 pm Thursday, October 8th, 2015 Whitley's Funeral Home

Service: There will be a Celebration of Life in lieu of a funeral service.

Interment: Private