Joseph Edward "Ed" Barnes

Elm City – Joseph Edward “Ed” Barnes, age 73, passed away on Saturday, December 27, 2025.  Born in Wilson County, NC on December 31, 1951, he was the son of the late Samuel Lawrence Barnes and Minnie Virginia Moore Barnes.  He was also preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Lynn Williams Barnes.

Never one to pass an opportunity to cast a line in search of the one that got away, Ed enjoyed fishing with family and friends.  He loved spending time with his family at the beach and was most fond of fishing at the family pond.  A dedicated and loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and good friend to many, Ed will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Ed is survived by his daughter, Terry Lynn Barnes Cook; his sons, Travis Lawrence Barnes (Lauren) and Trenton Lee Barnes (Carla); his grandchildren, Kate Cook, Braeden Barnes, Holden Barnes, Avery Barnes, Aiden Barnes, Asher Barnes, and Adler Barnes; his sisters, Frances Barnes Godwin, Mavis Barnes Godwin (Hubert), Gertrude Barnes Godwin, Linda Barnes Flora (Rusty), and Doris Barnes Webb (Mike); his brothers, Irvin Barnes (Faye), Larry Barnes, and Alvin Barnes; his sister in law, Judy Powell; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and good friends.

A Celebration of Life Service to celebrate Ed’s life will be held on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 3:00 PM in the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Ave., Rocky Mount, NC 27804 with Pastor Steve Webb officiating.  Visitation with the family will be following the service in the Atrium of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

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.