Charles A Barns

Charles Albert “Charlie” Barns went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Friday, December 15, 2017. Charlie was born on October 30th, 1932 in Dallas, TX, the third son of W.C. and Clara Barns, following his older brothers, Bill and Jim. He graduated from Highland Park High School, then Southern Methodist University where he was a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. After serving in the United States Air Force, Charlie met Martha Black at Park Cities Baptist Church and they were married on September 2nd, 1961 in Beatrice, Alabama. Martha was truly the love of his life and they enjoyed over 56 wonderful years together. They were best friends, unconditionally committed to each other and never happier than when they were together. A well-respected and successful businessman, Charlie was involved in a wide variety of business interests and ventures. He was an avid HP Scots fan and a mainstay at Highlander Stadium, where he held season tickets for over 67 years. Until his 80th birthday, Charlie raced sports cars internationally and all over the United States where he was National Champion multiple times. He was also a very avid and accomplished fisherman, fishing all over the world. Later in life, Charlie loved nothing better than spending time with his family and going to his grandkids’ performances and sporting events. He was a life-long and faithful member of Park Cities Baptist Church where he served as Chairman of the Deacons and was on countless other committees. Regardless of the occasion, Charlie Barns was always remarkably kind, gracious and genuinely interested in how other people were doing. A true gentleman, Charlie was also known for his wit and firm handshake. Charlie Barns was always true to his faith, to his family and to himself. He is greatly loved and respected by his family and friends, and will truly be missed. He is survived by his lovely wife, Martha Black Barns; his son John William Barns, John’s wife Molly Martindale Barns, and their children, Julianne and William; his daughter Barbara Barns Gilley, Barbara’s husband, John Gilley, and their children John Robert and Elizabeth. Visitation will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 19th at Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home, and a Memorial Service will be held in Ellis Chapel at Park Cities Baptist Church at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 20th, with a reception following in Ellis Parlor. In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial contributions are made to the Park Cities Baptist Church General Fund, the Highland Park Sports Club or the service organization of your choice.