Kenneth Barnes

Presider Floyd Kenneth Barnes, Sr. passed away on October 25, 2021, at Harlan Appalachian Regional Hospital. He was born on December 10, 1932, in Harlan, KY., the second child of eight born to Oliver Eugene and Daisy Opal Barnes.

Preceding him in death are his parents; three brothers, Millard, Elmer, Billy; and sister Dorris.

Kenneth attended and graduated in May 1952 from Rosenwald High School in Harlan, KY. After graduation, he attended Tennessee A&I State University for one year, after which he was drafted into the Army on September 29, 1953, and received an honorable discharge on September 28, 1955. He also served in the National Guard Reserves for several years. A skilled mechanic, he worked alongside his father at Gene Barnes Garage, and later retired from Croushorn Equipment Company, Harlan, KY.

He confessed Christ at an early age and attended Triumph the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ, Harlan, KY. He was an active member, and thirsting after the Word and righteousness, received religious education and ordination as a minister by Triumph the Church. Later, he became the Presider of Triumph the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ, Cumberland, KY.

Kenneth was active in the community, where he served as a boy scout troop leader, coach for various athletic activities, and an active member of the Rosenwald Harlanites. He served as Secretary and was a member of the Harlan Masonic Lodge #96, F.& A.M. Kenneth wed the love of his life on September 9, 1955, Shelby (Pennington Gap, VA), who preceded him in death in 2018. Five children were born to this union. Cherishing the memory of this loving and devoted father are: Theresa J. Barnes (Michael Evans), Lexington, KY; Consuela T. Edmond, Riverside, CA; Beverly C. (Anthony) McClenney, Lexington, KY; Kelvin L. Barnes, Lexington, KY; and Floyd K. (Jeanne) Barnes, Jr., Harlan, KY. Grandchildren include: Stephen Barnes, Keisha Barnes, Reginald Edmond, II (preceded in death, 2008), Floyd K. Barnes, III (Trey), LaRon Jackson, Anthony McClenney Jr., and one great-grandchild Ayana Johnson.

Surviving their precious brother are: Harold (Louise) Barnes, Detroit, MI; Lela (Samuel) Norris, Lathrop Village, MI; Lois (Victor) Payne, Westland, MI; and sister-in-law Cherryl Barnes, Detroit, MI. Mourning his absence also, are a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.

Presider Kenneth Barnes was a good and faithful soldier, both in battling a long-term chronic illness, and combating the enemy of this world (Satan). His heart was for the Lord, and he fought tirelessly to reconcile many to Christ. His faith was unwavering, and he is now resting in the arms of God. “To God be the glory.”

Funeral services will be held on Saturday October 30, 2021, at the Mount Olive Baptist Church in Harlan, KY at 1PM with Elder Eric Barnes and State Prince Sylvester Steel officiating. Burial will take place on Monday November 1, 2021 at the Resthaven Cemetery with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Military honors will be performed by the Harlan County Honor Guard.

Visitation will also be on Saturday from 12-1PM at the Mount Olive Baptist Church.

On behalf of the staff of the Henson and Rich Funeral Home we would like to offer our heartfelt sympathy to the family during your time of bereavement.

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