Kenneth Barnes

Kenneth Wayne Barnes, affectionately known as Kenny, was born on September 3, 1968, in New Brunswick, New Jersey. He was the cherished son of the late James W. Barnes and Thelma R. Barnes-Stephens.

Kenny later moved to Trenton, NJ, where he graduated from high school and formed many lifelong friendships. He spent years working at his family’s restaurant, Jumbo’s Seafood, where his laid-back spirit and warm smile greeted countless customers. He also dedicated time and compassion to the Greenbrook Regional Camp for the Disabled and UPS. After living with his family in Newark, NJ for 15 years, they relocated to Easton, PA, where Kenny worked at the HUD Distribution Center, continuing to share his steady work ethic, kindness, and gentle spirit with everyone around him.

Kenny was easygoing, respectful, and deeply loved by all who knew him. He had a gift for making people feel good—always ready with a smile, a joke, or encouraging words. He loved sports, especially his Pittsburgh Steelers, and enjoyed spirited conversations about politics and other lively topics. His humor, curiosity, and big heart made him truly unforgettable.

Above all, Kenny was devoted to his family. He adored his wife, Mary, and their daughter, Sasha, the absolute loves of his life. He treasured every moment spent talking, laughing, and being silly with Sasha, who lovingly called him “DaDa.” She will forever miss his joyful dancing and enthusiastic love of food. Kenny never missed a birthday or holiday call, especially Mother’s Day, which he celebrated proudly for his wife, mother, and cherished aunties. His family was his world, and he made sure they felt it every day.

Kenny was predeceased by his father, James W. Barnes; stepfather, Larry Stephens; stepsister, Deidre Bonner Hill; mother-in-law, Charlotte McDuffie; paternal grandparents, Addo and Rosie Barnes; and maternal grandparents, Norman Ratliff and Elma Ratliff-Andrews.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 30 years, Mary Barnes; son Kenneth Clark (Nicole) of Las Vegas, NV; daughter Sasha Barnes; grandchildren Laniya, Nathan, Emmanuel, Elijah, and Noah; great-grandson Josiah, all of Las Vegas, NV; his loving mother, Thelma Barnes-Stephens of Somerset, NJ; brothers Moswens, Larry Jr. (Tia), and Timothy (Karolyn) Stephens; sister Ebony Stephens; stepsister April Stephens, all of Macon, GA; stepbrothers Reginald Stephens of Brooklyn, NY and Kevin Stephens of Columbus, OH; father-in-law Isaih McDuffie of Bishopville, SC; sisters-in-law Anita (Jimmy) of Lexington, SC and Veronica Peterson of Newark, NJ; brother-in-law Altonya Peterson of Columbia, SC; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.

Kenny’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and kindness.
His presence made life brighter, and his memory will continue to do the same.