Charles L. Barnes, Jr.

Charles Loyd Barnes, Jr., 72, of Lubbock, passed away on the evening of August 29, 2026, after a long decline from Parkinson’s. Charles was born on August 30, 1953, in San Diego, San Diego County, California to the late Charles Loyd Barnes, Sr. and Norma (Barrett) Barnes. 

Charles met the love of his life Judith Elaine Prude in Arkansas, and they were happily married for 47 years. They lived in South Texas and then Lubbock for most of their lives. Charlie and Judie shared a mutual love for Australian Shepherds and Border Collies. They trained and bred dogs for confirmation, herding, scenting, and agility, and won many awards at shows across the country. Charlie was a long time member of West Texas Sheep Dog Association and the Australian Shepherd Club of America. Judie preceded him in death on April 13, 2025. 

Charles devoted his life to serving God. He was a dedicated witness for Christ. His faith nourished and sustained his family, and his strength was an example to all who knew him. He was dedicated and kind, whether as a volunteer Santa, or interacting with Texas Tech biology professors. He was an avid music lover and musician. His sense of humor was rare and sharp. He was a loyal friend and included many of them as family. He was a long time member of Community Christian Church and First Christian Church. 

Charles was a professional welder by trade. He worked as an independent contractor building large structures and offshore oil rigs, before running his own shop in Lubbock. Subsequently he worked at Texas Tech University in the Physical Plant machine shop, HVAC, and then managing the Biology building when he retired after 18 years. 

Those left to honor and cherish his memory include his two children Kelli Laine Kavanagh (Ian McDowell Kavanagh) and Jason William Barnes Hamzy (Lee Christine Hamzy). Grandchildren: Jennifer LeighAnn Collette, Brendan Finnian Sylvie Kavanagh, Claire Evangelaine Kylan Kavanagh, Hannah Rose Elaine Hamzy, Joseph Forest Lennon Hamzy, Faith Ilana Marie Hamzy. Great Grandchild: Amelia Rivers Collette, Sister: Norma Barnes Ventura, Nephew: Nathaniel Reed Ventura, Niece: Catia Nicole Ventura, Great nephews: Rico Nathaniel Ventura and Patrick Cole Cornett. As well as his Australian Shepherds Rose and Canon. 

Charlie was loved by so many and will be missed always. 

A Celebration of Life will be held for Charles at 3 PM on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, in the sanctuary of First Christian Church, 2323 Broadway in Lubbock. Pastor Paul Carpenter will be the officiant. The family will receive guests following services in the church parlor. Cremation arrangements and services are under the personal care and direction of Combest Family Funeral Homes and Crematory.