Billy Ray Barnes, age 62, of LaPorte, passed away at 10:32 p.m., Monday, November 7, 2022 in his home surrounded by his family.
He was born November 14, 1959, in Phoenix, AZ, to the late Carlson Lee and Catherine Ilene (Gilbert) Barnes.
He married his wife, Melissa Carol (Boggs) Barnes, on March 15, 1987, who survives.
Also surviving are his daughter, Selina Ray (Justin) Clements and Meleah Michelle Barnes; two grandchildren, Madison Ray Clements and Bodie Michael Clements; step-mom, Loretta (Reed) Barnes; two sisters, Mary Alice Barnes and Martha Melissie Barnes; sister-in-law, Robin K. (Sanders) Barnes; as well as Aunts, Uncle, nephews, nieces, and cousins.
Preceding in death were his grandparents, Henry and Melissie (Webb) Barnes; and two brothers, Carlson Lee Jr. Barnes and DeWayne Lee Barnes.
To know Billy Ray was to love him. He brought light to all who seen his smile or heard his voice. Billy’s heart was quick to forgive and he loved unconditionally. He was affectionate, funny, giving and loyal. Billy had the heart of a child, but the determination and strength of a man. He was desert born and bred in Arizona, and grew up in a large loving and close family. Billy served in the United States Army from 1976 to 1979. He was a service connected disabled veteran. Billy was honored to have served his country and his country served him back by providing him with the best health care anyone could have. Billy was a talented Country and Western singer, musician, and song writer. Along with his brothers, Carlson and DeWayne, they formed the Sidewinder Band. Through the 80’s they performed all around Phoenix, AZ and were loved by many. Music was Billy’s dream, passion, and part of his soul and now he and his brothers are singing together once again in Heaven. Billy was greatly loved by his wife, daughters, son-in-law, and grandchildren. Their lives without him will be forever changed, but they will cherish him in their hearts. Enough cannot be said of what a great husband, father, father-in-law, and papaw he was. Billy was so loved by all of his family and friends. His wife, Melissa, so often heard the phrase “who could be mad at Billy?” The Answer…… No One!
A funeral celebrating his life will be held at 6 p.m., Friday, November 11, 2022 at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory 247 W. Johnson Rd., La Porte (219) 362-3100 with Billy’s cousins, Buddy and Thomas Tharp, officiating. Friends and family may call from 5 p.m. until time of service on Friday at the funeral home.
Please send condolences to the family at www.LakeviewFHC.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be directed to the Fisher House Foundation, Inc. (helping military families) at 12300 Twinbrook Pkwy Suite 410, Rockville, MD 20852 in memory of Billy Ray Barnes. Online donations may be directed to donations@fisherhouse.org.
