Robert "Jason" Barnes

Whitakers – Robert “Jason” Barnes, age 47, passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.  Born in Nash County, NC on June 9, 1978, he was the son of the late Orvin Ollie Barnes and Martha Ann Wilson Barnes.

Jason was a good man with a big heart and an even bigger personality.  He loved attention, but when it came time to give it, he gave it fully and genuinely.  His love for his son and his grandchildren ran deep, and they were the pride of his life.  He enjoyed running his hunting dogs and took great pride in caring for them.  Jason was a true homebody at heart, he loved being at home on his property, around the shop, in the places that brought him comfort and peace, and spending time with his girlfriend and family.  No matter what was going on, home was where he was happiest.

Jason had a special bond with his nephew, Baby Joey, whom he absolutely adored, his “eyeball,” as he affectionately called him.  If you knew Jason, you knew he loved the telephone; he could talk for hours and would happily call every day, especially his brother, Joey.  The bond between the two brothers was strong and unbreakable, they would do anything for one another.

Jason had a gift for making people laugh and bringing joy into a room.  Paige was more than family by marriage; she was truly his sister in every way that mattered.  She was the one who lovingly called him “JayByrd,” a name that stuck and meant so much to him.  He loved her dearly, and she watched over him with sisterly love.  Their bond was one he held close to his heart.  She’s the only person he let Boss him around!  She loved his beautiful handwriting and encouraged it by gifting him special pens so he could show it off.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Jason is survived by his girlfriend, Windy Summerlin; his brother, Thomas “Joey” Barnes, Sr. and wife, Paige, AKA sister Paigepoo; his nephew, Thomas Joey “Baby Joey” Barnes, Jr., and stepson, Justin who was like his own; and stepdaughter, Cori; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Jason’s life will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 11:00 AM in the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Pastor Caleb Gibson officiating.  Burial will follow the service at Rocky Mount Memorial Park.  The family will receive friends and relatives on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made in Jason’s memory to Christian Fellowship Home for Men, 301 S. Grace Street, Rocky Mount, NC  27804.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.