Billy Gene Barnes, age 80, of Blue Ridge, passed away on Monday, October 9, 2017 at his home. Born on April 16, 1937, in Turtletown, he was the son of the late Roy and Frances Mealer Barnes. He served in the United States Army. He later worked for the Tennessee Copper Company at London Mill. He is preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Nancy Barnes Cofer. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Green Barnes of the home; sons, Thomas Barnes of Blue Ridge and Steven Barnes of Douglasville; daughters, Mary (Scott) Barnette of Chatsworth; step daughters, Kim Miller and Felicia Cowan of Epworth; grandchildren, Joseph Ensley, Daniel Cofer, Brianna Barnes, Alicia Cowan, Shawn Messer, Kelli Ritz, and Trent Lowery; great-grandchildren, Wyatt Walker, Willie Ritz, and Ava Cofer; sister-in-law, Esther Barnes; nephew, Billy Barnes; and niece, Rosie Flynn. No services are planned at this time. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.akinsfuneralhome.com. Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge is in charge of the arrangements. .