Benjamin Franklin Barnes' Obituary
Ben was born in Sayre, Oklahoma to George W. and Effie Jane Melton Barnes. Most of his formative years were spent in the Pauls Valley and Norman Oklahoma areas. He worked in CCC camps during the mid 1930’s. During World War II he worked on the railroad ferrying troops. After WWII he became a jeweler and watchmaker. He owned Barnes Jewelry on Main Street of Denison, Texas during the 1950’s and 1960’s. He and Nora moved to Richardson, Texas in 1966. He continued living in Richardson until his death. He owned Walnut Hill Jewelers at Marsh Lane and NW highway in Dallas, Texas until he retired in December 2007. In November 1939 he married Nora Ann Gates at Purcell, Oklahoma. He is survived by his wife, Nora, two sons Tommy Barnes of Casper, Wyoming, Michael and Carol Barnes of Keller, Texas, four daughters Karen and David Wilmot of Richardson, Texas, Yvonne Boultinghouse of Richardson, Texas, LaJan Barnes of Baltimore, Maryland, and Debbie and Jerry Slutsky of Plano, Texas. Additionally he is survived by 11 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, a brother Samuel g. Barnes of Stigler, Oklahoma, a brother Stanley and Joy Barnes of Kayes, Oklahoma, sisters Catherine Anderson and Maureen Barnes of Mesa, Arizona. He was preceded in death by his twin brother Howard (age 14), his parents, and sisters Gladys McKinley and Stella Collier. Donations may be made to the Oglesby Foundation at Waterview Church of Christ, or the Waterview Church Library.
What’s your fondest memory of Benjamin?
What’s a lesson you learned from Benjamin?
Share a story where Benjamin's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Benjamin you’ll never forget.
How did Benjamin make you smile?