James “Jim” Austin Barnes, 77, of Murfreesboro, passed away on August 30, 2026, after a life filled with family, faith, friendship, laughter, and service.
Born on April 9, 1949, to Agatha Roberts, Jim was raised in Nashville and graduated from Antioch High School in 1967. He continued his education at Middle Tennessee State University, where he earned his master’s degree in biology. His college years brought him many of the lifelong PALS and friendships he treasured throughout his life.
Jim went on to build a career spanning more than 30 years with the State of Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, where he dedicated his professional life to serving the state he called home. He retired in 2015 after a long and fulfilling career.
Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. He took great pride in his faith as a devoted member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus community. His greatest joy was being Gio to his four grandchildren and pouring his love into them always.
More than anything, Jim loved people. He was a master storyteller, able to recall the finest details of past experiences. He used this trait to make everyone feel like they had always known him. He could often be found at morning coffee with the Mature Men’s Group and on the bocce court at St Rose. He will be remembered for his quick wit, quirky sense of humor and ability to never know a stranger.
Jim leaves behind his wife of 48 years, Paula; his children, Jackie Lee (Hunter) and Brad Barnes (Rachel); grandchildren Thomas, Luca, Mason, Alaina; his sister Frankie Totty (RC) along with friends and family who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his mother, Agatha Roberts and his brother, Phillip Roberts.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jim’s life on September 9, 2026 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church (1601 N. Tennessee Blvd Murfreesboro, TN). Visitation will be held from 9:00-10:00 AM in the Narthex, followed by Mass of Christian Burial from 10:00-11:00 AM. A celebration of life will follow the mass in the Jo Call room at St. Rose.
The family hopes that those who knew Jim will remember him by helping someone in need, spending time with loved ones and checking in with those who need a friend. Tell a story about him, no matter how small, to friends or strangers alike, so that his legacy may live on. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Knights of Columbus Council 4563 at 1601 N. Tennessee Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN 37130.
Cremation services are being handled by Woodfin Funeral Chapels
An online guestbook is available for the family at www.woodfinchapel.com.
