Gary Lee Barnes

Mr. Gary Lee Barnes, age 66, passed away peacefully on Thursday afternoon, December 7, 2023, following a series of health issues he has faced over the last few years.

Born on August 16, 1957 in Ballston Spa, Gary was the son of the late George F. Barnes, Sr. and Betty J. (Hayes) Barnes. His childhood, which he never actually outgrew, was spent in Ballston Spa where he graduated from high school.

Gary was a big kid with Peter Pan syndrome who lived life to the fullest every day. He was larger than life with his tall stature, stubbornness and booming loud voice; a force of nature in his very presence. On the inside though, he was a softy who had the biggest heart, loved children and was the constant defender of the underdog. He wasn’t afraid to match wits with rudeness and put those in their place who needed it.

In his working years, most people would remember Gary from his days spent with Tufflite, Grand Union and with Angelica Laundry Service. He was dependable and extroverted in nature with a bodacious attitude and sense of humor; all traits which allowed him to make friends easily. To know Gary was to be his friend!

To match Gary’s zest for life was his appetite for food, which he absolutely loved. In his free time he could often be found listening to LOUD and BOOMING music of all genres. He was also an avid sports fanatic, supporting the NY Giants, Kansas City Chiefs and North Carolina Tar Heels.

However, it would be remiss to say that he was only a fan of the New York Yankees…but perhaps one of their biggest followers and supporters of all time! He never missed a chance to cheer on his beloved baseball team and was an amazing statistician when it came to their players and history. He could tell you anything about Mickey Mantle’s eighteen seasons with the Bronx Bombers. He will surely be cheering them on from his heavenly home.

When life slowed down and Gary’s health worsened, his journey led him to Willow Park in Utica where he has lived these last several years to be closer to family. This time has been especially precious for his sister and caregiver, Jo-Anne Murphy and her husband, Kevin, of Ilion. He also leaves his children, Christopher Barnes and wife, Kristy of Arizona and Nicole Barnes of North Carolina. Forever in his heart was the memory of his daughter, Elisha Leigh Barnes, who predeceased him.

Other survivors include Gary’s granddaughters, Siara, Paloma and Joanne; Brenda Senecal, whom was like a daughter to Gary; and good family friends, Rose and Walter Trentini.

Aside from his parents and daughter, Gary was predeceased by his brother, George F. Barnes, Jr.

Appreciation is extended to Wynn Hospital’s 8 East staff and the Palliative Care team for the compassion and care shown to Gary and his family. A special thank you as well to Utica Rehab, with mention of the 2nd Floor staff, Betty Jean at the front desk and Sara Chapman, FNP for their loving care, kindness and support.

In keeping with Gary’s wishes, his earthly remains will be cremated and laid to rest with his daughter in the spring in Ballston Spa. These arrangements have been entrusted to the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Town of Frankfort, Ilion, NY (315) 894-8000, Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com .