F. James "Jim" Barnes

F. James "Jim" Barnes, age 83, of Burnsville, MN, passed away on September 4, 2024. 

A Celebration of Jim's Life will be held at Noon with visitation time from 11:00 - 11:45 AM on Monday, September 9, 2024, at New Hope Baptist Church, 2020 Evergreen Ln, Shakopee, MN 55379. Dr. Darrell D. Murphy will preside. Jim will be laid to rest at Spirit Hill Cemetery in Jordan, MN. 

Reverend F. James Barnes, affectionately known as Jim, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and service. Born on November 5, 1940, in Marion, Ohio. He graduated from Marion Harding High School in 1959, where he enjoyed participating in track and playing the violin in the City Band.

Jim’s journey with the Lord began at the age of 18 after attending a revival meeting. Inspired by Reverends Bob Jones and John R. Rice, he committed his life to Christ and felt the call to preach. He attended Bob Jones University but left early due to an injury. Undeterred, he joined a traveling evangelist group, leading worship and spreading the gospel. It was at a tent revival in 1962 that he met his future wife, and they married in September 1963, sharing 61 wonderful years together.

Jim earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Toledo Bible College in Toledo, Ohio. He dedicated 40 years to preaching, serving congregations at Whiteland First Baptist Church in Whiteland, Indiana, Windsor Village Baptist Church in Indianapolis, Indiana, and Monongah Baptist Church in Monongah, West Virginia. He also taught at Indiana Bible College and directed numerous family camps, leading countless people to the Lord.

In addition to his pastoral work, Jim served as a Police Chaplain, Dispatcher, and Volunteer Firefighter in New Whiteland, Indiana. He was known for his kindness, thoughtfulness, and remarkable memory for names. Jim cherished his family, enjoyed naps and pie, and even at 83, loved playing on the floor with his great-grandchildren. His silly faces and hearty laughter brought joy to many, and he always had a captivating story or joke to share.

Jim lived an extraordinary life as a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and preacher. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.

Survived by wife, Joyce Barnes; daughter, Karen (Robert) Simmons; foster children, Kathy and Richard Beeson; grandchildren, Rachel (Aaron) Houck, Sarah (Dave) Donovan, Michael (Kjersten) Simmons; great-grandchildren, Mathias Simmons-Montez, Jessie Houck, Hailey Donovan, Jace Rylander, Gage Donovan, Brielle Donovan, Iris Simmons, Magnus Simmons; sister-in-law, Brenda (Glenn) Gregory and Evelyn Barnes; and other loving relatives and friends.

Preceded by parents, Curtis and Helen Barnes; and brother, Bill Barnes.