Ronald Stewart Barnes, 90, of Charleston, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 25, 2026, following a long and fulfilling life.

Known affectionately to everyone as “Stu,” he was born on October 13, 1936, in Charleston, West Virginia, to the late John and Ruby (Kessinger) Barnes. Raised on South Park Road, Stu proudly considered himself a “Mission Hollow Boy,” a connection to his roots that he carried with him throughout his life.

Above all else, Stu was a devoted family man. He shared more than 50 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Vona (Hill) Barnes. Their love for one another was extraordinary, built on a lifetime of companionship, devotion, and an unbreakable bond. To know Stu was to know just how much he loved Vona, and how deeply she loved him in return.

Stu was a loving and proud father to his only son, Jeff. From Little League through college baseball, Stu never missed a game, always cheering from the stands and celebrating his son’s accomplishments. That pride continued throughout Jeff’s professional career and extended to his grandson, Trevor, whose accomplishments in the music industry brought Stu tremendous joy.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Stu served his country as a member of the distinguished 82nd Airborne Division, stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. His military service remained a source of great pride throughout his life.

Professionally, Stu dedicated 40 years to hospital administration, serving in senior management roles as Director of Patient Accounts and Finance for three West Virginia hospitals. His career reflected a strong work ethic, dedication, and commitment to the healthcare organizations he served.

Stu was also a lifelong fan of West Virginia University Mountaineer football. Some of his favorite memories were made cheering on the Mountaineers alongside Jeff, whether watching games together or attending them at the old Mountaineer Field. His love for the Mountaineers was unwavering.

He also had a special place in his heart for his four-legged companions. Over the years, Stu shared his home and affection with three Yorkshire Terriers, each of whom brought him great happiness.

Stu was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Vona (Hill) Barnes; his parents, John and Ruby (Kessinger) Barnes; and his brother, Ralph Barnes.

He is survived by his son, Jeff Barnes, and daughter-in-law, Susan, of Nashville, Tennessee; his grandson, Trevor Barnes, of Nashville, Tennessee; and his step-granddaughter, Lauren Miller, of Lexington, Kentucky.

Blessed with 90 years of life, Stu leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and devotion to family. He will be remembered for the pride he took in those he loved, his steadfast support of his family, and the many memories shared with those fortunate enough to know him.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at Snodgrass Funeral Home in South Charleston, West Virginia. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at noon.

A military burial will immediately follow at Tyler Mountain Memory Gardens in Cross Lanes, West Virginia, where Stu will be laid to rest with military honors. At his personal request, the playing of Taps will be included in the ceremony, a final tribute to a proud American veteran.

Though he will be deeply missed, Stu’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him and in the family he cherished above all else.

Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with these arrangements.