Andrew L. Barnes, jr, (Andy) of Sandston, VA entered eternal rest on November 14, 2024.
He was predeceased by his daughter, Anne Howard; father, Andrew L Barnes Sr.; Birth mother, Virginia Barnes; sister, Helen Haden; grandfather and grandmother, who raised him, Elwood Barnes, Sr. and Myrtle Barnes; nephew, Wayne Haden; and Niece, Cynthia Gartland.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years Martha; daughter, Christy Meeks (Michael); four grandchildren, Melissa Howard, Andrew Howard, Ryan Meeks and Austin Meeks; two great grandchildren, Vincent Cutright, Jr. and Everett Toothman; son-in-law, Michael Howard; sister, Dorothy Miller; two nieces, Barbara Kirkland and Carol Slayton; two nephews, Tom Haden and Arnold Haden.
Andy retired From the Virginia Department of Transportation after 46 years although he was disabled after a stroke in 2002 and stayed on disability until retirement age. Salt-Water fishing was one of Andy’s hobbies. He also enjoyed bowling and was an avid collector of stamps, baseball cards and old coins.
Andy had heath problems most of his life. After he was married he had 17 surgeries (that Martha can recall), 9 times he had pneumonia, along with epilepsy most of his adult life, a brain aneurysm, numerous mini strokes, one major stroke, a brain avm, sepsis, dementia, and a fib. He never complained or felt sorry for himself.
He spent time with the grandchildren when possible. He would go along with them to places like Dory Park, Maymont Park, the Richmond Metro Zoo, baseball games and many school activities.
Andy and Martha enjoyed spending time on Craig Creek at a rustic cabin that Andy helped build. There was no indoor plumbing or electricity which was why they enjoyed it so much. Andy always kept the outside fireplace going to keep the wild animals away. Although Andy had advanced dementia, he could play dominoes, count money and give correct change. He enjoyed search and find books and was very good at it. He enjoyed living the simple life and as Martha has always said “He was as comfortable to be around as an old shoe!”
A memorial service is planned for 2:00 P.M., December 7, 2024, at Hardy Central Baptist Church, (With visitation from 1:30 – 2:00 PM) 4655 Darbytown Rd., Henrico, VA.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hardy Central Baptist Church in Andy’s memory.
