Brian D. Barnes, Sr.

Brian David Barnes, Sr., 70, of Millstadt, IL, passed away peacefully on Monday May 26, 2025, in St. Louis, MO. Brian was born on September 3, 1954, in St. Louis MO, to Allen S. and Evelyn R. (Limpert) Barnes and his father precedes him in death.

Brian was a veteran of the United States Air Force and bravely served his country during the Vietnam Era, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. While serving, Brian worked as an electronic technician, focusing on missiles. After his service, he worked as an electrician until his retirement.

Brian was very generous with his time. He served as a Volunteer Fireman for the Millstadt Union Fire Department for many years. He was an active member of St. James Catholic Church, serving on the liturgy committee for several years. He was also a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus all his adult life and a loyal member of the American Legion Post 502. Most important to Brian was his church family and he loved serving St. James Catholic Church in many ways.

Brian was athletic and enjoyed playing volleyball, baseball, softball, and golf. He also enjoyed bowling in leagues and with his family. He coached many of his kids’ teams when they were young. In his spare time, he loved playing board games and card games with family. Brian often had a building project going on, and took pleasure in fixing things. Family was central to Brian’s life; he was often travelling to see his children and grandchildren in recent years. He will be remembered as a loving son, dad, grandpa, brother, uncle and dear friend of many. Brian was a faithful servant of God, and his faith will live on as an inspiration to all who knew and loved him.

Left to cherish his memory is his mother, Evelyn R. Barnes, his children: Heather (John) Shelton, Caren (fiancé Nicholas Brooks) Barnes, Brian Barnes, Jr., Michael (Hanna) Barnes and his step-daughter, TerriAnn Watson; his siblings: Allen (Joyce) Barnes, Denise Oppermann, James Barnes, Carol (George) Morrison, Evie Williams and Janice (Terry) Kramer; his grandchildren: Joshua Shelton, Trinity Shelton, Brady Shelton, Ricky Shelton, Bonnie Shelton, Sofia Shelton, Alijah Shelton, Ellie Shelton, Madalyn Miller, David Miller, Erika Carrol, Stella Barnes and Jack Barnes; his great-granddaughter, Cheyenne Sanchez in addition to many nieces, nephews, extended family and beloved friends.

Visitation will be held on Thursday June 5, 2025, from 5:00pm-7:00pm at Hoffen Funeral Home, 220 W. Washington St., Millstadt, IL; and again on Friday June 6, 2025, from 9:30 am -10:00am at St. James Catholic Church, 405 W. Madison St., Millstadt, IL. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00am and will be celebrated by Fr. Evaristus Akabueze, Fr. Andy Knopik, Msgr. Marvin Volk and Deacon Bill Mueller. Brian will be laid to rest privately at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO.

In lieu of flowers Memorial contributions in memory of Brian D. Barnes, Sr. may be directed to the St. James Catholic Church Building Fund and will be collected at the funeral home and the church or online at https://stjames67.flocknote.com/give/24155.

Hoffen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.