Stanley Barnes, 92

Stanley Philip Barnes, always known as “Jim,” passed away Aug. 2, 2025, at his home in Dixon, Mont., at the age of 92 years, 1 month, and 16 days.

He was born June 17, 1933, in Hobbs, Ind., to Guy R. and Zola L. (Nance) Barnes, the fourth of six children.

Jim grew up on the farm and attended school in Hobbs and Windfall, Ind., until moving with the family in 1949 to Tempe, Ariz.. He graduated from Tempe Union High School in 1951, after which Jim studied for the ministry at Manhattan Bible College in Manhattan, Kan.

At Manhattan Bible College, Jim met Marilyn Jo Mustoe, and they married June 5, 1953, at her home church in Wichita, Kan. Together they served in ministry in Adrian, Mo., and Abilene, Kan., where he preached and headed up youth ministries.

In March 1966, Jim and Marilyn, with their four children, moved to western Montana which remained their home.

Jim briefly worked for Sunset Memorial Gardens, before joining Anaconda Lumber Company at the Bonner mill (where he went by “Stan”). He continued with Champion International, eventually transferring to and retiring from the Libby office.

Jim continued to serve Jesus throughout this time, preaching in Helena, Missoula, Troy and Ronan. His heart was with youth. He enjoyed cards, the outdoors and sports, but more so if he could include people in his enjoyment.

Mr. Barnes was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn; son Kevin S. Barnes; his parents, Guy and Zola; two sisters, M. Joann Crain and Sarah L. Perkins; and two brothers, Jean L. and Jack L. Barnes.

He is survived by one sister, Patricia C. Deerinwater of Oklahoma; two daughters, Karen S. McCullough and Audrey K. Bullock, both in Montana; one son, Keith P. (Cheryl) Barnes in Minnesota; and one daughter-in-law, Sheila A. Barnes in Alabama. He leaves 14 cherished grandchildren and 20 beloved great-grandchildren, and many treasured nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be at Pablo Christian Church, 35890 Clairmont Rd., Pablo, on Saturday, Sept. 27, at 11 a.m., with a meal and memories following. Donations to a cause near to Jim’s heart can be made to Kootenai Christian Camp, P.O. Box 1054, St. Ignatius, MT 59865.