Billie Ray Barnes

Mr. Billie Ray Barnes, 78, Collins, MS, passed away on March 19, 2025, at Forrest General Hospital, Hattiesburg, MS.

In 1967, Mr. Barnes enlisted in the United States Army and served honorably until February 1969 during the Vietnam War. After his military service, he was employed at Georgia Pacific until his retirement after 30-plus years. He was an ordained deacon at Jones Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, Collins, MS. He was also a member of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, Collins, MS.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mildred Watts; one daughter, Gloria Barnes; one granddaughter, Maleigha Fitts; two brothers, Wendell Barnes and Levernon Barnes; and one sister, Ellen McCullum.

Survivors include, his loving and supportive wife, Penelope Gammage Barnes; one son, Kenneth(Lisha) Barnes; daughters, Frances Barnes, Mildred(Michael) Satcher, and Paulette Barnes; brothers, Calvin(Shirley) Barnes, Jerry (Bonnie) Barnes, Eddie(Carla) Barnes, Steve (Ira) Barnes, and Roy Barnes; sisters, Vermel McCaskill, Joann (James) Garner, and Mary (Robert) Amerson; 11 grandchildren; one great grandson and special brother in law, Larry (Barbara) Barnes and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives.

Honorary Pallbearers: Jerry Barnes, Calvin Barnes, Roy Barnes, Larry Barnes, Eddie M. Barnes, and Steve Barnes

Active Pallbearers: Reggie Barnes, Lee Barnes, Jimmy Watson, Charles McCullum, Perry Merrell, and Alfred McCaskill

Flower Bearers: Nieces

Floyd Strickland was the Eulogist.