Clifford Barnes Sr.

Obituary For Clifford Barnes Sr.

Clifford Barnes Sr., who peacefully passed away on Tuesday August 13, 2024. Clifford was a beloved husband, father/grandfather, brother, foster parent, nurse and businessman. He was born July 22, 1959, in Youngstown, Ohio; the beloved son of Clarence Barnes Sr. and Ola Mildred (Gorman) Barnes.

Clifford was a graduate of the Rayen School class of 1976. Throughout his illustrious professional journey, he made significant contributions within the Mahoning Valley. He was a cleaner at Marsano Dale Cleaners and Dutchess Cleaners. Following his passion for entrepreneurship, he became the owner and operator of his own company, Lighthouse Dry Cleaners, utilizing the skills obtained previously.

Clifford later embarked upon a career in the health care industry as a licensed practical nurse in 1994. As a medical professional, he shared his expertise to optimize the health and healing of countless individuals. He worked for various health care for over two decades rendering quality nursing care. Upon retirement from a fulfilling nursing career, he then devoted his life to caring for his grandchildren and extending his nurturing nature to children within the foster care system.

Clifford touched the lives of many with his selfless dedication to the care and well-being of others. Granting comfort and healing throughout his life, Clifford's compassionate spirit resonated in every endeavor he pursued.

Clifford was a devoted husband to his childhood sweetheart, Laura Joyce (Kitchen) Barnes, whose love will continue to endure. Together they built a loving and stable home for their six children which includes Clifford Barnes Jr. of Austintown, OH, Nathaniel Barnes of Myrtle Beach, SC, Lovie Barnes of Youngstown, Ola Nicole Barnes of Cincinnati, OH, Clarence Barnes of Austintown, OH and Laura (Nahum) Graham of Youngstown.

A pillar of strength and wisdom for succeeding generations, his legacy will be sustained by the love he poured into his twenty grandchildren and score of nieces and nephews. Additionally, he was a mentor to Eimaj Harris of Youngstown whom he helped rear, along with a cadre of children formally as a foster parent and informally as a father figure to other youth within the community.

He leaves to cherish fond memories among his five siblings, Barbara Barnes of Youngstown, OH, Darleen Barnes of Newton, KS, Donna Barnes of Greensboro, NC, Timothy Barnes Sr. of Fort Mill, SC and Lester Barnes Sr. of Los Angeles, CA.

Now taking his place among the ancestors, as Clifford crossed into eternity, he welcomed by his parents and brother Clarence Barnes Jr. who predeceased him.

Distinguished by his kindness and generosity, Clifford was a source of support and guidance for many, epitomizing the values of love and care. His legacy of compassion will continue to resonate through the lives he touched, both within his family and the wider community.

The celebration of Clifford Barnes Sr.'s life will take place on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at the Lighthouse Covenant Ministries, 1755 Shehy Street in Youngstown at 1:00 pm. Apostle Michael Scott Sr., shall officiate the memorial service which will serve as a testament to Clifford's indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. A repast will follow the conclusion of the services.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the beloved family of Clifford Barnes Sr., elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Ave., Youngstown OH 330.782.8500