Ernest Lee Barnes, age 76, passed away July 13, 2021 at his Germantown, TN residence with his family by his side. He was born June 11, 1945 in Nashville, TN. He served in the U.S. Air Force during Vietnam. He attended Middle Tennessee State University, but more recently always cheered for UT Orange. Ernest retired from FedEx, after 32 years, as a manager in Flight Operations. He was happiest when attending a St. Louis Cardinals game, trout fishing along the White River (Arkansas) with his buddies, or attending his grandchildren's various sporting events. He also enjoyed listening to blues music and watching old Godzilla movies. Ernest attended Central Church, Collierville, TN.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Austin Ray Barnes and Dorothy Lucille Whittaker Barnes; brothers, Michael, Terry, and Ralph. Ernest is survived by his wife of 49 years, Nancy Barnes; son, Ryan Barnes (Rebecca); grandchildren, Tyler, Joseph, and Audrey; sister, Sandra Henry; several nieces and nephews; and dog, Molly (who never left his side).
The family will receive friends at a visitation on Tuesday, July 20 from 5:00 until 7:00 PM at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 21 at 9:30 AM, at the funeral home. Interment with military honors will occur immediately afterwards at West Tennessee Veterans Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be sent to Ernest's favorite charities: Tunica Humane Society, Toys for Tots, or Calvary Rescue Mission.
