Mike Barnes

(From Peterson Funeral Chapel)

“Mike” Frank Michael Barnes, age 73, of Aurora, went to his heavenly home on March 22, 2026, after a short illness.

Mike was born on June 8, 1952, in Folkston, Georgia, to the late Bertha and Howard Barnes. He was a devoted truck driver for 36 years, spending the last 14 years with his USA Truck family, friends, and brothers and sisters of the road. During his time there, he was honored as the 2020 Driver of the Year and was a Grand Champion in truck competition.

Mike cherished his time at home with family. He enjoyed family gatherings, and his greatest joy was spoiling his daughter, Sarah.

He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Connie, and daughter, Sarah, of the home; son Dustin/Somer of Rogersville, Missouri; son Dylan Barnes of Fort Worth, Texas; son Desmond Barnes of Ozark, Missouri; daughter Erica Kleiber/Joey of Springfield, Missouri; son Jamie Newton/ LaDonnaof Stockton, Missouri; son Cecil Newton of Aurora, Missouri; and son Johnathan Green of Aurora, Missouri.

He is also survived by his father-in-law, Lowell Newton of Aurora, Missouri; 18 grandchildren; 3 great-grandsons; sister Darrah Young of Florida; brother Hervey Barnes of Florida; brother Walter Barnes of Georgia; and numerous other family members, as well as a very special family friend, Janna Hawks of Van Buren, Arkansas.

Mike was preceded in death by his loving mother, Bertha Barnes; father, Howard Barnes; brothers, Owen and Harvey Barnes; mother-in-law, Bertha Newton; and his brother of the road, Charles Traxler of Florida.

Mike was a loving husband, father, and grandfather—a devoted family man who left a lasting mark on everyone who loved him. He will be forever missed.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, March 28th at 1:00 p.m. in the Peterson Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow at Jones Chastain Cemetery in Nixa, Mo. Visitation will be held Friday, March 27th at 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. in the Funeral Home.

Arrangements are under the care of Peterson Funeral Chapel.