Gary W. Barnes

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Gary W. Barnes on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. He was born in Mt. Healthy, Ohio, on October 27, 1946 to the late Alexis and Helen (nee Laugel) Barnes and preceded in death by eight siblings: Alta Montgomery, Shirley Bailey, Helen May Conley, Alexis Barnes, Duane Barnes, David Barnes, Rosalee Brown, and Liela Hucker.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Debbie Wirth-Barnes; sons Bret (Christine) Barnes and Ethan (Katie) Barnes and daughter Allison (Andrew) Barnes; grandchildren Michael (Kelly) Huber, Ariel (Nathan) Herdeman, and Sebastian Barnes; great-grand children Colton and Cecelia Huber; older sister Myrna (Jerry) Glendenin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

After graduating from Mt. Healthy High School in 1964, Gary continued his studies at the University of Cincinnati until 1966 when he enlisted in the US Army. He was commissioned as an armor officer and deployed in July 1968 as platoon leader (1LT) with the 3/4 Cavalry, 25th Infantry Division to Cu Chi, South Vietnam. Through gallant service in combat, he earned a Bronze Star with "V" device and Purple Heart before returning home in June 1969. Gary returned to UC and finished his BS degree in chemistry and biology in 1972. Eventually, he would go on to earn his Juris Doctorate from NKU's Chase College of Law in 1983.

While working in the pharmacy department at University Hospital, he met Debbie (who was already engaged at the time) causing Gary to claim that "all the good ones were taken." However, through perseverance and a bit of luck, the two began dating and were married on August 1, 1980. Soon thereafter, they welcomed their first-born son, Bret, into this world in 1981; their second son Ethan in 1984; and their only daughter, Allison, in 1987.

Although Gary had various jobs throughout his life - including medical lab tech, IRS agent, and chemist - his most important and cherished role was that of father. Despite being the youngest of 10 children himself and from modest means, he made sure that his own children would never be wanting, and he took great pride in being their #1 fan, mentor, comedian, playmate, and unbeknownst to him, role model. And though he was reserved and soft spoken, he expressed his great love for Debbie, Bret, Ethan, and Allison through his actions, generosity, and devotion.

A public visitation will be held at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church (7770 Beechmont Ave.) on Friday, September 12, 2025, beginning at 9 AM until mass at 10 AM. The burial service with military honors will take place at Gate of Heaven Cemetery (11000 Montgomery Rd.) at 11:30 AM. All are invited to a reception at nearby DeSha's (11320 Montgomery Rd.) immediately following the burial to celebrate Gary's life.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Catholic or veterans charity of your choice.