Michael Gary Barnes

Michael G. Barnes, 79 of Fonta Flora, Linville River/ Lake James Community North Carolina, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025.

He was born in Sweetwater, Tennessee to Pete Quinn Barnes and Jay Lloyd Barnes, June 14, 1946.

Mike graduated from Oak Ridge Academy and after high school graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy, were he served during the Vietnam War (Swift Boat Recovery). He later attended the University of Tennessee and Appalachian State University where he received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees respectively in Special Education.

Mike’s love for children with special needs included his first employment with a grassroots program called “Bringing it all Back Home “.

He later worked at Western Carolina Center (JIRC) as a classroom teacher.

Subsequently, he taught children with special needs in a satellite program through the Burke County Public Schools at South Mountain Children’s Home.

Mike had been an active member of the Masonic Lodge #217 in Morganton, North Carolina. He was active for many years participating in Veteran Affairs in Asheville, North Carolina and locally was a volunteer at the Longtown Fire Department.

Mike will be remembered fondly for his open door policy to friends and strangers on Wednesday or Friday nights for music jams at the Barnes River Cabin.

Michael G. Barnes is survived by his wife; Robin Barnes; sons; Jason (Erika) Barnes, Wilkes Strain (Erin) and five grandchildren Holden and Emma Barnes, Max, Hayes, and Sam Strain.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Linville United Methodist Church, Saturday, December 27, 2025 at 1:00 pm, with a gathering of friends and family, in the fellowship hall following the service.

A private burial will be held for family and friends at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Linville UMC Benevolence Fund.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Mackie Funeral Service and Cremations in Granite Falls, NC.