Thomas A. Barnes

ORANGE- Thomas A. Barnes, 79, of Prentiss Street, died peacefully at home early Wednesday morning, June 12, 2024 following an illness, with his wife at his side.

Born in Greenfield on July 24, 1944, he was the son of Bernard and Thelma M. (Richardson) Barnes  and started his life living in Northfield before his family moved to Orange. He graduated Tech School in 1962.

In 1984, Thomas married Sherry (Recos) and have enjoyed 40 years of marriage.

Thomas worked a few years in construction before joining the family business, Barnes Roofing & Waterproofing and became the owner in 1983 with the passing of his father.

Thomas loved the outdoors, especially flying and boating. He loved being on the water, just not in it! He also enjoyed fishing and remote control cars and boats.

A long time member of the Orange Gun Club, he served as Vice President for many years. He had also been a member of the former Athol-Orange Elks Lodge #1837, the Orange American legion as well as several other clubs.

For many years, Thomas was a participant in the annual River Rat Race, canoeing from Athol to Orange.

Thomas is survived by his devoted wife, Sherry Barnes of Orange; his children, Thom Barnes and his wife Kim of Greenfield, David Barnes and his wife Heather of Orange, Justin Barnes of Georgia, Leann Biancani and hr husband Pete of Rhode Island and Mindy Vincent and her husband Justin of Granby; grandchildren, Ryan, Katie, Erica, Morgan, Isaiah, Brooke and Cody; great grandchildren, Emmie and Mason; brothers, Ralph Barnes and wife Louella of Tennessee, Calvin Barnes and wife Lynn of Vernon, VT, Malcolm Barnes and wife Barbara of Orange; sisters, Loretta Bergquist of Orange and Gloria Zbikowski and husband Dave of California; many nephews and nieces along with extended family.

Besides his parents, Thomas was predeceased by brothers David and Larry.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, June 21, 2024 from 4-6 p.m. at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, June 21st at 6:30 p.m. at the Orange Gun Club, 357 West River Street, Orange.

Donations in Thomas’ memory can be made to the Orange Gun Club for children’s activities, P.O. Box 263, Orange, MA 01364.

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

Guest book online at WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

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