– Former NRCC President Ed Barnes passes away at 86
– Ed Barnes, previous NRCC President, dies at the age of 86.
Former NRCC President Dr. Ed Barnes Passes Away at 86
The New River Community College (NRCC) community is mourning the loss of Dr. Ed Barnes, the college’s fourth president. Dr. Barnes, who served as president from 1991 to 2000, passed away at the age of 86.
A Life Dedicated to Education
Edwin L. “Ed” Barnes, born on July 24, 1937, in Roseboro, North Carolina, was a passionate advocate for education throughout his life. Despite being born into poverty as the son of sharecroppers, he believed in the transformative power of education. He attended college for 20 years as a part-time student while working full-time, eventually earning three degrees, including a PhD from Virginia Tech.
Before his career in academia, Ed spent ten years working with Cone Mills and Burlington Hosiery. However, his true calling was in the community college system. He served as the president of two Virginia community colleges and as an interim president of another. His dedication to education and commitment to improving lives through learning made him a respected figure in the field.
A Unique Character
Ed Barnes was known for his mechanical ineptness, which he often humorously referred to as being a slow learner. His self-deprecating humor endeared him to many, and his stories about his mechanical mishaps brought laughter and smiles to those who knew him.
Despite his challenges with all things mechanical, Ed never let it dampen his spirit. He embraced his shortcomings and hired technicians who could handle the tasks he couldn’t. His determination to overcome obstacles was evident in his accomplishments throughout his career.
Remembering Ed Barnes
Ed Barnes leaves behind a legacy of dedication, passion, and a love for education. He is survived by his children, Stephen and Babbe Barnes of Galax, VA, Michael and Marie Barnes of Ronceverte, WV, and Cynthia and Jon Palmer of Greenville.
He also leaves behind grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings-in-law, and numerous dear friends. A service of remembrance honoring Ed and his late wife, Shirley, will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Moody Funeral Home Chapel in Mount Airy.
Dr. David Johnson, former president of Wytheville Community College and Johnston Community College, will preside over the service. Prior to the service, there will be a time for friends and family to pay their respects at the funeral home from 12:30 until 2:00 PM.
Honoring Ed’s Memory
In memory of Ed and his late wife Shirley, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the following scholarship funds:
- Shirley N. Barnes Scholarship Fund, Camp Community College Foundation, 100 North College Drive, Franklin, VA 23851
- The Barnes Family Scholarship Fund, New River Community College Educational Foundation, 5251 College Drive, Dublin, VA 24084
- The Barnes Family Scholarship Fund, Wytheville Community College Educational Foundation, 1000 East Main Street, Wytheville, VA 24382
- Alamance Community College Foundation, P.O. Box 8000, Graham, NC 27253-8000
These contributions will help support and empower future generations in their pursuit of education, carrying on Ed’s legacy of transforming lives through learning.
Dr. Ed Barnes will be fondly remembered for his dedication to education and his unwavering belief in the power of learning. His impact on the community college system and the lives of those he touched will be felt for generations to come.
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