Gilbert Wesley 'Sonny' Barnes

Gilbert Wesley ‘Sonny’ Barnes, Jr., age 81, of Boone, passed away Sunday afternoon, December 1, 2024 at his home.  Born February 2, 1943 in Watauga County, he was the son of Gilbert and Grace Norris Barnes.  Sonny loved his career as a long distance trucker driver that allowed him to travel all across the United States.  He enjoyed going to auto shows, showing his cars and bring home trophies. 

Sonny was preceded in death by his parents, two children, Paul Barnes and Chris Barnes and his two brothers-in-law.

Sonny is survived by his daughter, Kim Barnes of Hudson and his son, Jamie Barnes and wife, Amy, of Galax, VA; sisters, Frankie Bodenhamer of Boone and Jane Cornett of Vilas; four grandchildren, Kolby, Kolton, Kaylin and Matthew Barnes and one great granddaughter, Adeline Grace. He’s also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Sonny Barnes will be conducted Thursday afternoon, December 5, at 2 o’clock at the Austin and Barnes Funeral Chapel, officiated by Rev. Raymond Spann and Rev. Tim Dockery.  The family will receive friends from 12:30 until 2 o’clock, prior to services at Austin & Barnes.  Graveside services will follow at Mount Lawn Memorial Park & Gardens, 521 Old East King St., Boone.

At other times, the family may be reached at the home of his sister, Frankie at 2332 Old Hwy 421 South, Boone.  The family requests no food.  Flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to the Seby B. Jones Cancer Center, 336 Deerfield Road, Boone, NC 28607 or to Amorem Hospice, 902 Kirkwood St., NW, Lenoir, NC 28645.

The family wishes to extend a sincere ‘Thank You’ to Alberta Miller with Amorem for her kindness and care of our family and also to all the ladies at Blue Ridge Diner for looking after Sonny.

Online condolences may be shared at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com

Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Barnes family.   

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