Mr. Jay Barnes Obituary THE LEGACY OF Jay Brian Barnes Jay Barnes was born in Smithfield, North Carolina on July 31, 1970, to Uzzell and Virginia Barnes. Jay was a star football player at North Clayton High School. He graduated with the class of 1989. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted into the military where he served in the United States Navy for a brief moment. During his military enlistment, he traveled to exotic places, from Africa to Paris, taking in the atmosphere and knowledge of the natives, and not being afraid to step outside the box. While still in active duty in Tampa, Florida, Jay met Paula. As soon as they met each other, sparks flew. And sooner than anyone knew, they were in love and having their first child. Not too long after, a second child was on the way, so Jay decided to pop the question and they got married. Jay was married to Paula for over nineteen years, and to this union were born nine beautiful children. He loved his children with all his heart, and would often take them on different adventures. From trying to catch gators in Titusville, to taking weekend trips to Islands of Adventure, Jay made sure his family experienced life to the fullest. Although Jay was the quiet type, he was always aware and studying his surroundings. He was a very caring and active man in his numerous neighborhoods. He opened his home to many children that didn't have places to go. He would often turn on his favorite show, Sanford and Son, while cooking for his family. Jay entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, July 15th. 2014 at Winter Park Memorial Hospital in Winter Park Garden, Florida. He was preceded in death by his wife, Paula Barnes, two of his children - Justus Barnes / Paul Barnes, and a brother - Gregory Barnes. He leaves to cherish his memory seven beautiful children; Jonella Barnes, Jay Barnes II, Joseph Barnes, Jaysha Barnes, Jacob Barnes, Sarah Barnes, Abraham Barnes and his step-son Ahtram Henley (all of Sanford, Florida); his one and only grandson - Isaiah Barnes; his parents - Uzzell and Virginia Barnes of Clayton, North Carolina; his sister - Christine Merritt of Watha, North Carolina; his brother, Roderick Barnes of Deltona, Florida; his best friends -Steve Williams of Wake Forest, North Carolina, Brian Harris of Raleigh, North Carolina and Alec Hayes of Deltona, Florida and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other sorrowing friends. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mr. Jay Brian Barnes please visit our Sympathy Store.