Charles Barnes Sr.

Charles Barnes, Sr. of Saginaw, Michigan

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away peacefully on Easter Monday, April 10, 2023, at his home, with his family by his side. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior 30 days prior to his passing. He was 65 years old and had been a homeowner in Saginaw, Michigan since 2006. Charles was born on September 04, 1957, in Lillian, Mississippi, to the late James and Christine (Payton) Barnes. He met the love of his life, Pamela J. Winston, in 1975, and they’ve been inseparable ever since. He was employed as a crane operator and as a maintenance man for over 40 years with Spooner’s Auto Crushing, and continued working for the company when they became Fritz Enterprise. He was the patriarch, leader, and backbone of his entire family. Passing the torch of his wisdom not only with his family, but at work as well, as a trusted mentor; leaving family and friends to pick up where he left off. Never too busy to lend an ear for work related issues, even after retirement, with a working solution to fix the problem. During his lifetime he was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. With his stern, abrasive, sheer will and drive he taught a majority of the boys in his family ho to become strong, responsible, independent, hardworking, young men. His charm, strength, and relentless courage made women in the family feel safe and protected. His words and presence left a great influence and impact on many of our lives. He enjoyed fishing with his parents from a young age, which continued throughout his life. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles, spending time with his family, a day off, and good old pay day Friday. A jack-of-all-trades, Charles could work on and fix anything. Reserved by nature, he didn’t like people fussing over him, but he truly had one of the kindest and most giving hearts one could ever witness. He will forever be remembered for his courageous strength and independence and for his selflessness to anyone in need. Also, for his infamous quotes “Quit Complaining” “Quit Crying” and “Man Up”. He truly lived an admirable, hardworking life, filled with many beautiful memories and stories.  

Surviving are his wife of 48 years, Pamela J. (Winston) Barnes of Saginaw; a son, Charles L. Barnes Jr. of Saginaw; a granddaughter, C’Erika Moten of Saginaw; two great-grandchildren: Lauryn Moten and Messiah Moten of Saginaw; brothers: Eddie (Patricia) Barnes of Lansing; Woodrow Barnes of Saginaw; Willie Barnes of Saginaw; Randy (Betty) Barnes of Midland; sisters: Mary Barnes of Midland; Hannah (Robert) Dawson of Midland; Gloria (Timothy) Stark of Midland; Patricia Barnes of Mayville. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death in death by his parents, James and Christine Barnes; brothers: clarence Barnes and Willie Branes; sister, Lee Dora; sisters-in-law: Odessa Barnes and Rosemary Hardin; nieces: Ella Mae Joshua and Bessie Joshua; nephews: Anthony Barnes and Isaac Barnes.

Honoring Charles’ wishes, cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 20, 2023, at the W. L. Case & Company, 4480 Mackinaw Road. Bishop Alvernis Johnson will officiate.  Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.casefuneralhome.com.