Ules Lee Barnwell Jr.

Lee was a member of the 1st graduating class of the United States Air Force Academy where he earned his undergraduate degree in Aeronautical Engineering. After graduating in 1959, he attended flight school, earned his wings and became a pilot in the U.S. Air Force. Later, he also received a Master’s Degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology in Dayton, OH. He traveled all over the world with the Air Force and was excited about all of the experiences he had during that time. He rose to the rank of Lt. Colonel while serving his country for 24 years.

Lee loved to learn and to teach. He was a lifelong learner – always excited about learning and sharing his knowledge with others. He was an instructor at the U.S. Air Force Academy and also taught at other colleges throughout the United States as he was transferred to different Air Force bases. After retiring from the service, he taught Astronomy and Physics at Tri County Technical College near Clemson, SC. He loved the stars and astronomy. He could often be found in the backyard gazing at the night sky through one of the many telescopes he owned throughout the years. Lee inherited a love of flowers from his mother and that love was passed down to all three of his children. He loved to work in the yard and make it a beautiful place for him and his wife and others to sit and enjoy. He loved the water and often times chose homes for his family on a lake or near the ocean. While living in Shalimar, FL, he loved to sail on his 32-foot sailboat in the Gulf of Mexico.

Lee was a loving husband and father - always providing and always putting his family first. He loved the Lord and was in awe of God’s creations. Each time the family moved, he quickly found a new church home for his family and served in many areas of the church throughout his life. He was affectionately called Ghee by his four grandchildren. He dearly loved them and was proud of each one.

Even in his 80s, he still had a vigor for life and adventure. He was always buying gadgets and loved to see how they worked. Last year, at 85, he wanted to ride the big Skywheel at the fair in Columbia, SC so we did and he said “it was fantastic.” He also loved strawberry shortcakes at the fair, a good chili dog, and anything chocolate!

Lee is survived by his three children: Ules Lee Barnwell III (Fretta) of Glen St. Mary, FL; Lisa Sams (Wayne) and their children Stephen and Cassie of Daytona Beach, FL; and Jennifer Anderson (Trip) and their children TJ and Emma of Conway, SC. He is also survived by his brother Rev. Ray Barnwell (Sue) of West Union, SC.

“The sun has one kind of splendor, the moon another, and the stars another, and star differs from star in splendor.” 1 Corinthians 15:41

We hope that you will take time to look up at the night sky, consider the wonders of God’s creation, and when you do, remember our sweet Dad.

A funeral service will be held at 12:30 p.m., Friday, November 4, 2022, at Dunbar Funeral Home, Dutch Fork Chapel, with the burial at Fort Jackson National Cemetery to follow at 2:00 p.m. The family will receive friends from 11:30 until 12:30 prior to the service at the funeral home.