Robert Cecil Barnes

January 7, 1947 - November 11, 2023
Robert Cecil Barnes

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Robert Cecil Barnes, born on January 7, 1947, passed away on November 11, 2023, at the age of 76. Born in South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana, Robert was a beloved husband, father, and esteemed member of his community.

Robert's dedication to education spanned several decades, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of countless students. From 1970 to 1973, he taught at Culver Community High School, where he not only imparted knowledge but also coached wrestling, instilling discipline and resilience in his athletes. In 1975, Robert began his tenure as an Associate Professor at the School of Health & Human Performance at ECU, a position he held until his retirement in 2010. His commitment to his students and passion for his field earned him numerous awards and special achievements throughout his career.

Robert's academic journey began with his graduation from Mishawaka High School in 1965. He went on to earn his Bachelor's Degree from Indiana State University in 1970, followed by a Master's Degree in 1973. Seeking further knowledge and expertise, he pursued a PhD at the University of Tennessee in1975 and a Master of Public Health degree from UNC Chapel Hill in 1980.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Robert cherished his role as a husband and father. He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Perkins Barnes, and their son, Patrick Cecil Barnes. Together, they created a warm and supportive family environment that brought joy to Robert's life.

During this difficult time, Joseph B. Paul Jr. Funeral Service of Washington, NC is honored to serve the Barnes family. Services for Robert will be announced at a later date, allowing friends and loved ones to come together and pay their respects.

Robert Cecil Barnes will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to education, his commitment to his family, and his contributions to the field of health and human performance. His legacy will continue to inspire and influence those whose lives he touched. May he rest in eternal peace.

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  • November 22, 2023
    Glen G. Gilbert says:
    Rick was a highly respected colleague. I knew him for years before he and Mike Felts got me interested in ECU. He played a major role in making the ECU Health Education program the highly respected program it is today. He helped numerous faculty and students along the way. I am most thankful he was my friend and trusted colleague. Rose and I send our sincere condolences to Linda and Patrick. Glen G. Gilbert, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus, Dean Emeritus, College of Health & Human Performance, East Carolina University

  • November 19, 2023
    MG Alligood Rodgers says:
    Dr. Barnes/Rick was a wonderful professor & guy. I just spoke about him last week. I enjoyed his humor. He taught me a few life lessons I won't forget. When I think of ECU Health Education, I always think of Rick. Good memories. Thinking of his family.

  • November 17, 2023
    Marianna Jackson says:
    I did not know Mr. Barnes but if he was an Elvis fan he was a man of my heart. I am sorry for his family's loss. I pray God will grant them peace.

  • November 15, 2023
    Mathew Rush says:
    My Uncle Rick was an inspiration to not only do better for myself but for my Family as well. I always looked forward to the Holiday visits because every time it was over, I was a little bit wiser and a little more knowledgeable. I'll miss his presence and funny sense of humor he brought to the table. He was a Great Person who will be Greatly missed. By no means is this goodbye but until we meet again. I Love You Uncle Rick and I'll see you one the other side with the rest of our Clan.

  • November 15, 2023
    Mathew Rush says:
    Uncle Rick was an inspiration for me to do better not only for myself but for my Family too. I’ve enjoyed a lifetime of Holiday visits in which I was a little bit wiser and more knowledgeable every time he came Home. Without a doubt God has taken one of the Great ones from us but the Imprint Uncle Rick left will be felt by everyone he touched for lifetimes. I Love and Miss you Uncle Rick. Until we meet again.

  • November 14, 2023
    Marlene & Tony Young says:
    Rick will be missed by all his friends and neighbors. He was a thoughtful person and a great card player. Rest in peace Rick.

  • November 14, 2023
    Julia Keville says:
    Linda and Patrick, My sincere condolences to you during this time. May everlasting happy memories uplift your spirits making space for perfect peace.

  • November 14, 2023
    Diane Edwards says:
    A tribute to tenacity for all of us as well as a person that added to this community especially Pamlico Beach. Rick will be missed but his spirit will be guiding all of us from above. Peace and love to Patrick and Linda. Diane and Paul Edwards and the pups

  • November 14, 2023
    Belinda Foster says:
    Sending you love. I can’t imagine your pain. Such a great loss.

  • November 14, 2023
    Glenn Nelson says:
    We had some good times and a few beers in Terre Haute. Miss those days! Rest in Peace friend!! Glenn Nelson