Wilson Leroy Barnes Jr.

Wilson Leroy Barnes Jr., a well-respected chef, beloved brother, father, grandpa, and uncle passed away on Saturday, April 5th, 2025, after a brief illness. Born on Thursday, January 21st, 1932, in Birmingham, Alabama, Wilson’s life was marked by unwavering dedication to his family and friends.

Wilson attended Parker High School in Birmingham, Alabama and served in the United States Army 365th Unit as a Combat Engineer beginning Sunday, January 23rd,1950. He was a Korean War Veteran that received an honorable discharge on Tuesday, July 19th,1955.

As a beloved chef, Wilson was known for delicious meals and warm hospitality. He had a passion for soul and southern cuisine such as fried chicken, cabbage and collard greens. He worked in numerous restaurants in Springfield, Ohio area or cooking for family and friends known for his patience and wisdom, Wilson was a natural mentor. He coached many apprentice chefs during his professional career.

He enjoyed baseball, basketball, football, camping and fishing.

Wilson was a proud member of Mt. Zion Church of God in Christ of Columbus, Ohio and a former member of Church of Jesus Family Worship Center and Restored Life Ministries both of Springfield, Ohio.

Wilson is survived by his loving family; sister Earnestine E. Cunningham of Columbus, Ohio, his three children Alfred Whatley (Virgil Jones) of Fayetteville, Georgia, Yvonne Barnes of Los Angeles, California and Sharon Boyle of Spring eld, Ohio; Four Bonus children; Darin D. Johnson of Columbus, Ohio, Gary A. Johnson, Rahsaan R. West Moreland and Rita A. Franklin of Springfield, Ohio.

Four grandchildren Jeremy Gaskin of Queens, New York, Danielle Boyle and Jonathan Boyle of Los Angeles, California, LaKeisha Caines of Atlanta, Georgia.1 great grandson Terry Caines of Atlanta, Georgia.

A nephew Calvin Cunningham Jr., and special niece Linda (David) Howard. A host of great nieces and great - great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilson David Barnes Sr and Evelyn K. Cox; one brother Willie Floyd Barnes; maternal grandparents James and Phredona Joiner and paternal grandfather Willie Barnes.  Also, two wives Alama Grace Barnes and Sandra M. Barnes.

He was a devoted brother father, grandfather, uncle and friend. He will be remembered for his warm heart, infectious laughter and unwavering spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wilson Leroy Barnes Jr., please visit our floral store.