Donald Ward "Don" Barnes

Donald Ward “Don” Barnes, passed away on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. He was born in Lakeland, Florida on January 18th, 1946, where he attended Hampden DuBose Academy. During his youth, Don worked at Cypress Gardens, where he became known as one of the champion water skiers, showcasing his lifelong love of adventure and excellence. In Don’s later years he attended Carson Newman College. When his country called, Don answered with honor and humility. He proudly served as a helicopter hospital corpsman during the Vietnam War, stationed in Da Nang, where he risked his life to save others. His experiences there profoundly shaped his character by reinforcing his compassion, courage, and dedication to service. He carried those values with him throughout his life, both personally and professionally. Following his time in the Navy, Don became the CEO of Colbar, Inc., a respected government defense contractor, where he led with vision, integrity, and innovation. In Don’s later years, he attended Tusculum College, earning a bachelor’s degree in business. After retiring from the private sector, Don answered another call to service by becoming Knox County police officer and going through the Knox County Certified Officer Training in his 50s. His commitment and leadership were quickly recognized, and he retired with the distinguished title of Deputy Director of the Knox County Courts System. Don’s life was marked by a spirit of curiosity, generosity, and adventure. He was a licensed seaplane pilot, certified scuba diver, and an active member and past President of the Sertoma Club of Knoxville. Deeply involved in his community and faith, he was a devoted member of Cokesbury UMC and Ebenezer UMC, where he participated in numerous mission efforts. Beyond his professional and civic service, Don found joy in many passions—he was a racehorse owner, restaurant owner, and a generous philanthropist who touched countless lives. An avid outdoorsman, Don found peace and joy in hunting and fishing throughout his life and especially loved watersports and time spent on Norris Lake with family and friends. Those who knew him will remember his boundless energy, sense of adventure, and appreciation for the simple beauty of God’s creation. One of Don’s best tricks was the ability to ski on a wooden boat paddle, often winning small bets for this feat. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Ward L. Barnes and Doris Ridley Barnes Gibson, his sister Martha Nell Barnes Bartholomew, and his lifelong best friend A.B. Coleman. He is survived by his beloved wife, Virginia Schow Schwamm Barnes, whose companionship and love enriched every day of his life. Don is also survived by Lynn Inklebarger Barnes, the mother of his children, his devoted daughter, Heather Barnes Wisniowski, along with her children—Coltman Joseph, Sula Elizabeth, and Jackson Steven Wisniowski, of Dallas, Texas. He is further survived by his steadfast son, Steven Ward Barnes, and daughter-in-law, Meghan Rochford Barnes, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who were blessed to know and love him. Don Barnes lived a life that embodied service, strength, and compassion. He was a man who built bridges, between generations, between people, and between ideas. His legacy continues through his family, his faith, and the countless lives he touched along the way. Don’s journey reminds us all that a meaningful life is not measured by titles or possessions, but by the depth of one’s character, the strength of one’s convictions, and the kindness shared with others. Though he is no longer with us, his example endures, in his family, in his community, and in the many hearts that carry his memory forward. As Scripture reminds us: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:21 Please join the family on Thursday, October 30th from 5:00pm to 7:00 pm for a receiving of friends at Rose Funeral & Cremation - Mann, 6200 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919. There will also be a graveside celebration at 1:30 Friday, October 31st, at Oak Ridge Memorial Park, 1501 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37830. Memorials in Don's name may be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation or St. Jude's Childrens' Research Hospital

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Donald Ward "Don" Barnes

January 18, 1946 - October 28, 2025