Robert R. Barnes, Jr., passed away March 20, 2024. at the age of 90.
He was married to the love of his life, Dorothy Hanawalt Barnes. He was commissioned an officer in the United States Air Force in March 1955 at Ellington AFB, Texas.
Bob is survived by a son Robert Barnes , III (Susan), daughter, Juliann B. Dycus (Ronnie); three grandsons, Brandon, Travis, and Austin; granddaughter, Brandi McEwen, all living in the Huntsville area; and one sister, Martha B. Contecello of Warren, PA.
He was a true aviator and served his country with dedication and honor as a pilot. During his distinguished military career, Bob served during the Vietnam period and earned two Distinguished Flying Crosses, an Air Medal with six oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal, Combat Readiness Medal, National Defense Service Medal with one bronze star, Vietnam Service Medal with six bronze stars, and numerous other awards and ribbons.
After his retirement from the USAF as a L/Col in 1973, Bob and Dottie settled in Huntsville, where he flew aircraft for another 26 years with NASA. After his final retirement, Bob continued his dedication to the church by serving on the Session, as a deacon and on the board of trustees. He also volunteered with Habitat, building houses, and with CASA building wheelchair ramps.
Memorial services will be held at Covenant Presbyterian Church on Drake Avenue, date to be announced at a later date.
