Mr. Huston Lee Barnes, Jr.

Obituary For Mr. Huston Lee Barnes, Jr.

Mr. Huston Lee Barnes, Jr., a resident of Lanett, AL, died Friday, November 15, 2024 at his residence.

Memorial Services are scheduled for Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 12:00 Noon (EST) from Davis Memorial Mortuary Chapel, 305 W. F. Burns Drive, Valley, AL with Bishop Donald Lancaster as Eulogist. Davis Memorial Mortuary directing.

Obituary for Houston Lee “Yab” Barnes, Jr.
Not that I speak from need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with little, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:11-13

Houston Lee “Yab” Barnes, Jr. was born May 24, 1971, in Chambers County, Alabama, to the parentage of the late Houston Lee Barnes, Sr. and Velma Ruth Barrow Barnes.

At an early age, “Man,” as he was affectionately called by his family, moved in with his aunt, Pheobia Barnes, and his grandmother, Hattie Will Barnes, who were instrumental in his rearing. During this time, Houston developed a deep appreciation for family and the joys of life. He shared a special bond with his sister, Antonia, with whom he created memories that would last a lifetime.

The Myth
In his early years, Houston lived life in the fast lane. From West Shawmut to Atlanta and beyond, “Yab,” as he became known in the community, rose in fame as an entrepreneur, while striving to provide for his family. Houston enjoyed the pleasures of life—flashy cars, fancy clothes, fine jewelry, and famous friends until the consequences of his choices became his reality for nearly two decades.

Houston’s time of incarceration humbled him and produced a man who spent the remainder of his years, as a free man, seeking to restore the time lost with the most important people in his life.

The Man
Houston was a kind-hearted and gentle giant whose love for his family was boundless. Known for his calm demeanor, Houston never sought revenge for any wrongs done to him. Instead, he chose to let go and move forward with love.

Houston was a passionate lover of cars. Like his dad, he deemed himself a “Master Mechanic.” Houston also found joy in life’s small moments. He cherished the time spent with his children and absolutely loved being “Big Daddy” and “Paw Paw” to his grandchildren. He would even forego opportunities just to be able to have playtime with his grandchildren or to pick them up from school.

Houston always put others before himself. In recent years, he became a resident caregiver to his uncle, Arthur Barnes. He took delight in being able to shop, cook, and physically care for him.
Whether detailing cars for KB’s Car Wash and Stereo, delivering orders for Tasty Taters, giving a ride, or lending a helping hand, Houston was always ready to serve others.

Houston’s humor was legendary—his jokes and infectious laugh could brighten any room, especially at family gatherings that he loved. He was the kind of person who would give anyone the shirt off his back.
While his heart towards others was sincere, his physical heart began to fail. Nevertheless, on February 15, 2024, while in Cardiac ICU at East Alabama Medical Center, Houston confirmed his faith in Christ and began his ultimate healing journey.

The Legend
Nine months later, on November 15, 2024, Houston passed away peacefully at his home in Lanett, Alabama, at the age of 53.

He was preceded in death by his father, Houston Lee Barnes, Sr.; paternal grandparents: Hattie Will Barnes, and Fred and Mary Barnes; his maternal grandparents: Walter Sr. and Velma Sue Barrow; great-aunt, Eula Zell James; aunts: Pheobia Barnes Taylor, Glenda Brown, and Hilda Gibson; and uncles: Walter Barrow Jr. and Richard Barnes.

Houston Lee “Yab” Barnes, Jr. leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and selflessness. Those left to cherish his memories include two daughters: Caltoria Jackson and Lauren Ashley Moody; three sons: Houston De’mario (Shamarsha) Barnes, Jaqualen Williams, and Tri’Quavious Williams; six grandchildren: De’Marien Hopkins, Jahmeer Mar’Khi Jones, Calleigh Ross, Shaniyah Barnes, Houston De’mario Barnes, Jr. and Jru Jackson; bonus grandson, Noah Jamal Wright; his mother, Velma Ruth Barnes; siblings: Antonia (James) Pitts, Ervwin (Asia) Barnes, Dalphani Rogers, Demarquarious Truitt, Lekita Bridges, and Tashika Pace; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, all of whom he greatly adored; two special aunts that cared for him as their own: Zelda (Napoleon) Patterson and Della Copeland; a special uncle and caregiver, Terry Barnes; aunts: Marzilla (Kent) Ogletree, Remona Lisa (Steve) Piper, Tangie McFarland, Erical LeShay Barrow, uncles: Arthur Barnes, Bernard Barnes, Tony Barnes, Larry Barnes, Clarence (Lasheika) Barnes, Michael Barnes, Freddie Barnes, and Key Barrow; great-aunt: Christina Jenkins; special cousins: Amarylis Jones, Melissa (Domecia) Manuel, Robyn (Vincent Dozier) Barnes, Jemareo Barnes, Jolanda Barnes, Jacobie Barnes, Jeremy Barnes, Desbre (Precyous) Finley, Braylen Avery, and Ryan Avery; childhood friend and helping hand in time of sickness, Tyrus Scott; special friends: LaVaras Williams and Ezekiel Davidson; and a host of other cousins and friends.

Without a doubt, Houston’s children and grandchildren were his world. He will forever be remembered as a loving father and devoted grandfather, always there with open arms and a listening ear.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his spirit will forever live on in their hearts. His life will be celebrated for its kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for those around him.

Services by Davis Memorial Mortuary of Valley.

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Services

Memorial Service

Nov

23

Davis Memorial Mortuary

305 W. F. Burns Drive
Valley Alabama, AL 36854

12:00 PM

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