Cornelius Barnes

Mr. Cornelius Barnes was born August 3, 1939, to the late Lillie Mae Barnes Colson and Richard Skye Sr. in Chaires, Florida, which is located just east of Tallahassee in Leon County.  He was educated in the Leon County Public School system. Mr. Cornelius Barnes was affectionately known as “C.,” “Mr. C.,” “Uncle C.,” “Papa,” “Mud-Digger,” and “Sea Breeze.” His love of the lord manifested in his membership and faithful service at Saint Mark Missionary Baptist Church in Plant City, FL; where he proudly served as an usher and in the male choir. He worked at CF Industries for 37 years. He was known for his exceptional skills on the grill and fryer and delighting his loved ones, church members and co-workers with his food. He was an avid supporter of sports teams, particularly the Florida A&M University (FAMU) Rattlers football team. He was also an avid supporter of the FAMU Marching 100 Band. On January 21, 2025, our Heavenly Father called Cornelius home from his earthy duties.  He is preceded in death by his mother, Lillie Mae and Leroy Colson; father, Richard Skyes; Sr.; grandmother, Julia Burney; and sister, Minnie Ruth Washington, and Eliza Ann Moore. Cornelius may have departed this earthly world; but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He is survived by his loving wife, Lacrusha Barnes; 3 children, Antwan Williams, Lachandra Hilery, and Nayrone Boyd (Teri); grandchildren, Kelsey Williams, Quentin Ragins, Xavier Ragins, Noah Boyd (Jessie), and Nolan Boyd, 4 sisters, Betty Lou Dennis (Lawrence), Lillie Mae Colson Clack, Alzona Whitehead (Andre), Zelma Skyes; 1 brother, Richard Skyes Jr.; 2 sisters-in-law., Mary Burgess Taylor, and Laura Ward; 4 brothers-in-law, Clarence Burgess Jr., Nelson Burgess, Elder Benjamin Washington and Eddie James Moore. a dear cousin, Luke Governor; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousin, god children, extended family, and friends. 

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