James Howard Barnes, 81, of Carbon, passed away Thursday, March 14, 2024 in Tulsa.  Cremation arrangements have been completed and a memorial service is scheduled for Friday, March 22, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., at Brumley-Mills Funeral Home Chapel in McAlester.

James "Jim" Barnes was born on September 29, 1942 in McAlester to James M. and Opal (Holt) Barnes.  He grew up in the Carbon area and has lived there all his life.  He married Betty Bowen on August 8, 1964.  She preceded him in death in 2022.  Jim received his Master's Degree in Education, then began his career in education as a teacher at Hartshorne Public Schools.  He eventually served as Superintendent for many years.  As Jim grew up, he got involved in rodeo competition.  He competed in many rodeos over the years in calf-roping.  Hunting was probably his next favorite activity, in addition to working with his horses.   He was a member of the American Quarter Horse Association, AARP, and the Oklahoma Education Association.

Jim is survived by his son, Stoney Barnes; his daughter, Jana Barnes; grandchildren, Bray Killingsworth and his wife Johnna, Bryce Killingsworth and his wife Karissa; great grandchildren, Sydney, Jack, Avery, and Tux Killingsworth; a sister and brother-in-law, Phyllis and Mike Benton.  In addition to his wife, Jim was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.