James Leo Barnes

James Leo Jim Barnes, 58, of South Bend, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Memorial Hospital, joined by his beloved four-legged companion, Paisley. He was born on May 21, 1967, in Mishawaka to James and Linda Gilllean Barnes.

Jim grew up fascinated by space, history, and science. As a child he built projects of every kind and held onto many of them throughout his life. His deep curiosity never faded. Until the day he passed, he spent countless hours watching and reading anything he could about space, from black holes and rocket ships to the mysteries of the universe. He built model cars and rockets, collected spaceship figurines, and enjoyed every quirky electronic, chemistry set, drone, or RC car he could get his hands on.

Jim learned plumbing at a young age with the help of his uncles. What started as a skill quickly became a lifelong career that spanned more than forty years. He worked as a self-employed contractor and later became a true jack of all trades. He helped build countless homes and took pride in every step of the work, including plumbing, electrical, drywall, framework, and appliance installation. Jim never shied away from long days in the heat, cold, rain, or mud. He often invited Nashell or the kids to join him on site while he blasted classic rock on the stereo. He loved pointing out the houses he had helped build as they drove by. His work ethic was strong, steady, and something he proudly passed on to his children.

Even after a serious fall and several chronic conditions, Jim kept going. For a year he biked to medical appointments around South Bend. Later, he spent about five years doing DoorDash with the love of his life, always directing routes, offering commentary, and enjoying the time together with Paisley. Being with his family mattered more to him than anything, even when he was in pain.

Jim met Nashell by chance and youthful timing, a story their family treasures. She was visiting a tenant of his grandmother Pearl when Jim caught a glimpse of her through the window. Their relationship grew through shyness, concerts, shared gifts, and eventually an engagement supported by his sister Joanna. On February 14, 1998, on a warm winter day in the backyard of their Lydick home, they were married.

Together, they raised three children: Travis, Melissa, and Katelyn Barnes. Jim cherished his family deeply. He made sacrifices without hesitation and created a safe place for his children to share anything on their minds. He enjoyed game nights, long conversations, family dinners, and daily moments that built lifelong memories. His sense of humor, love for mobile games, unique ideas, and joy in the simple things made him unforgettable. His chicken quesadillas, love of cheesecake, and need for extra shredded cheese were iconic in the Barnes home. At home, Jim enjoyed playing card games like Rummy and dice games such as 10,000. He and his family often created their own fun rules, which led to plenty of laughter. 

Jim adored his dog Paisley. He often cooked special meals just for her, and she went everywhere he and Nashell went. Losing her with him brings the family comfort, knowing they remained side by side.

Jim also loved classic rock and going to concerts. He had been looking forward to seeing AC/DC at Notre Dame next fall. He was a devoted Notre Dame football fan and rarely missed a chance to watch a game.

Jim is survived by his wife of 27 years, Nashell Barnes of South Bend, along with their children: Travis (Alyssa Barnes Cockey) Barnes of South Bend, Katelyn (Alex Szewczyk) Barnes of California, and Melissa (Isaiah) Barnes of South Bend. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Joanna Behringer, 2 grandbabies he now holds in Heaven, and his beloved dog Paisley.

We are heartbroken by this sudden and profound loss. We take comfort in his faith as a devoted Catholic and in knowing he is at peace. His family imagines him exploring the stars he loved so much, with the best view in the universe, cooking chicken and rice for Paisley and waiting to welcome his loved ones again one day.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 pm on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home in Mishawaka. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Queen of Peace Catholic Church located at 4508 Vistula Road in Mishawaka.

As we honor and remember Jim, the Barnes family kindly asks for your support in covering final expenses through Cruz Family Funeral Home's secure crowdfunding platform. Your generous contributions will help ease the financial burden on the family and ensure that his services are a meaningful tribute to a life well lived. If you would like to donate, please visit follow the link below. Your kindness and support during this difficult time are deeply appreciated. Thank you for being part of Jim’s lasting legacy.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Jim’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the Guestbook tab above.

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