Victor E. Barnes, “Vic,” beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and decorated veteran, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, at the age of 94.
Born on April 17, 1931, in Bozeman, Montana, Vic was the son of Robert Eugene Barnes and Gracy Mae Callenthe Barnes. A proud patriot, he served his country with honor and distinction as a Senior Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force, with active duty in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. His 30-year military career was marked by dedication, bravery, and leadership.
After retiring from the Air Force, Victor and his family made their home in Sacramento, California. In 2021, he and his beloved wife of 60 years, Charlotte Ann (Pavlish) Barnes, relocated to Hopkinsville, Kentucky to be closer to family.
Known affectionately as “Papa Vic,” he lived life to the fullest well into his later years. He was a fearless adventurer—rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon, skydiving with grandsons Shane and Josh on his 80th birthday, and taking part in parasailing, hang-gliding, zip-lining, ocean kayaking, and heli-hiking in the Bugaboos, a mountain range in Canada, all while in his 80’s. He and Charlotte shared a love of travel, enjoying river cruises across Europe, down the Mississippi, to Alaska, and to witness New England’s autumn splendor.
Victor is survived by his devoted wife, Charlotte, and his children:
Michael Barnes (Kelly) of Hopkinsville, Kentucky
Linda Norberg (James) of California
Scott Douglas Barnes (Barbara) of Louisiana
Denise Bryant (John) of Louisiana
Peggy Smith of Florida
He leaves behind a legacy of love through his 13 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Victor was preceded in death by his grandson CW2 Shane Barnes, daughters Sharon Coe and Vicki Pruitt, and brothers Harley, Gary, and Reese Barnes.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 24, at Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Hopkinsville, KY. Visitation will be Saturday beginning at 10:00 a.m. with a Rosary to be said at 10:40 a.m. at the church.
Burial with military honors will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 27, at the Kentucky Veterans Cemetery West in Hopkinsville. The funeral procession will originate from Saints Peter& Paul Catholic Church at 9:15 a.m. Members of the Hopkinsville community and fellow veterans are warmly invited to attend either service.
Hughart, Beard & Giles Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Victor E. Barnes will be remembered for his courageous service, generosity, adventurous spirit, and the deep love he held for his family and country. He will be greatly missed.
In lieu of flowers, Victor and Charlotte have been supporters of Tunnel to Towers and Wounded Warrior Foundation.