Morris Gene Barnes, 77, passed away quietly at home Thursday, April 8, 2021 in Eureka after a very short but brave battle with cancer. He was born in Lawrence, Kansas to Oliver K. Barnes and Irvyl Barnes (Duncan).

Gene grew up in and around the Lawrence area. Upon graduating high school he joined the United States Air Force. After his honorable discharge, he became a police officer for the Dover Police Department in Dover, Delaware. He had a variety of jobs, including house painting, steel work, trailer setup and flagging/escorting wide loads. He then relocated back to Lawrence and worked for Kansas University (KU) as a maintenance service man for 19 years. He transferred from KU in 1999 to El Dorado Correctional Facility where he retired in 2005. He was honored for his 25 years of work with the State of Kansas upon his retirement. Those who loved him knew he considered himself a "Jack of All Trades, but a Master of None". His favorite hobbies included leatherwork, woodworking, and caring for his yard. His greatest source of pride was his growing family which includes 14 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild.

Gene is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Jacque Carol Barnes;  sister Mary Hart (Mike) of Frisco, Texas; daughters, Brenda Dunagan (Tim) of Leesburg, Florida;  Roberta Johnson of Bradenton, Florida; Marsha Karnes (Reggie) of Marydel, Maryland; Debbie Carter of Wichita, Kansas; and son, Robert Fisher (Tami) of Salem, Oregon and many nieces, nephews and cousins that loved him dearly. He is preceded in death by his parents; 2 brothers, Oliver H. and Willard Barnes; a sister, Faye Miller and a great grandson William Robert Lee Hill.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 1pm to 4pm on April 25, 2021 at Gene and Jacques home in Eureka.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in loving memory of Gene to:  Good Shepherd Hospice, 7829 E Rockhill, Suite 403, Wichita, Kansas 67206.

Baker Funeral Home of Valley Center, Kansas is handling arrangements. Condolences may be left for the family at www.bakerfhvc.com