James Thomas “Tommy” Barnes, 72 of Jackson, NC passed away on Sunday, April 7, 2024.

Tommy was born in Northampton County to the late James Linwood and Helen Drake Barnes. He was owner operator of J.T. Barnes Building Contractors for many years. 

Tommy was famous for riding dirt roads and listening to some good music on the radio. He loved the beach and was known to slip off and go just to smell the salt air, watch the waves and hear the seagulls.

The River was Tommy's 2nd home. He was known to go to the river almost every day to see the water and usually several friends that happened to be coming to do the very same thing. 

He loved unique fast cars and owned many in his time. He loved good music and was always up to go see a good band. 

Tommy was an avid fisherman and known as the captain on his boats. He loves horses and owned many in his lifetime.

He is survived by his daughter, Melissa Barnes Mayo and her husband, Greg of Raleigh; his sisters, Kay Futrell and her husband, Bernie of Rich Square and Gayle Ray of Jackson; his three grandsons, Luke, Lawson and Owen Mayo.

A graveside service will be held at Jackson Cemetery in Jackson on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at 2:00 PM with Rev. Ricky Barnes officiating.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 6:00-7:30 PM at Askew Funeral and Cremation Services-Jackson Chapel in Jackson.