James Carlton (J.C.) Barnes

James C. (J.C.) Barnes, born May 30, 1946, in Bethesda, Maryland, passed away peacefully at his home on January 24, 2026. J.C. was raised in Leesburg and Lucketts, Virginia. He attended Loudoun County High School where he played J.V. and varsity football for the Raiders. He graduated from Loudoun County and enlisted in the United States Air Force. J.C. also served his country as a civilian employee of the United States Navy in Bethesda, Maryland. He retired after 26 years of service.

J.C. married Mary Clagett in 1966 and had three children. He coached all three of his boys in sports. When he wasn’t coaching or volunteering, he rarely missed a game or a school event. He taught them to persevere through hard times and never quit. J.C. displayed that value until the very end of his life.

J.C. had a passion for umpiring, coaching, and mentoring youth, teenagers, and young adults, serving as a baseball and softball umpire until his retirement in 2019. He volunteered for the Loudoun County Raiders football program for over 30 years. He enjoyed growing his vegetable garden. J.C. played the accordion and multiple other instruments. He loved animals and provided a loving home to many different types. J.C. was a long-time member of the Leesburg Host Lions Club. He was active in church activities and lived his life serving the Lord. He was a proud husband, brother, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

J.C. was preceded in death by his dearest grandfather James W. Shry, his parents Homer and Ruth Barnes, his brother Gene Barnes, and his best “buddy” Molly. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary Clagett Barnes; sons Jim, Jeff, and Michael Barnes; four grandchildren Alyson, Andrew, Ashley, and T.J.; and two great-granddaughters Sophia and Zoey. He is survived by two sisters Carol Costello and Cindy Crotinger as well as many nieces and nephews.

For anyone who would like to make a memorial contribution, the family suggests donations to the Leesburg Host Lions Club, P.O. Box 1150, Leesburg, VA 20177.

Funeral services will be held at Colonial Funeral Home, 201 Edwards Ferry Rd. N.E., Leesburg on Saturday, January 31, 2026. Visitation begins at 11a.m., the service is at 12 noon, with burial at Union Cemetery immediately following, weather permitting.