Barnes came to UAM in 1980 as an assistant coach following a highly successful career at Montrose Academy, where he compiled a combined junior and senior high school record of 98-14-4. He became UAM's 20th head football coach following the 1984 season and for the next 12 years guided the Boll Weevils to 69 wins, 53 losses and one tie. His 1988 and 1993 squads reached the NAIA Division I playoffs and his teams were ranked in the final NAIA Top 25 six times.
His 1993 team won the championship of the old Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference and his '88 squad, quarterbacked by current Razorback Foundation Executive Director Sean Rochelle, is the only team in school history to win 10 games in a season.
"We all have defining moments in our lives and there are usually a variety of people associated with them," said Rochelle in a statement. "Other than my mother, I can think of no one who was part of more of those moments for me than Coach Barnes. He provided me with a scholarship so I could attend school, offered me my first full-time job when he brought me back to UAM to join his staff, and was always in my corner as I moved forward in life. He was an amazing father, a devoted husband, a wise mentor, a dedicated Christian. I am grateful that he was my coach, and more importantly, my friend. I love Coach Barnes."
Barnes won at UAM despite having fewer scholarships, a smaller staff and facilities that at the time lagged far behind his competition. "I have the utmost respect for Tommy Barnes as a football coach and what he accomplished at UAM," said Harold Horton, former Central Arkansas coach whose teams dominated the AIC in the 1980s. "Tommy was a competitor and that's the way his teams played. They were hard to beat. He didn't have the resources that a lot of schools had at that time, but he made the most of what he had."
He was a 2012 inductee in the Dallas County Hall Of Fame and a 2002 inductee in the UAM Hall Of Fame. A native of Fordyce, Barnes was a three-year letterman for UAM (then Arkansas A&M) from 1969-71, rushing for 1,688 yards as a wishbone fullback. Tommy was a member of Pauline Missionary Baptist Church and was preceded in death by his father, C.H. Barnes, Jr.
Survivors include his wife of 42 years, Kookie Kelley Barnes of Monticello; one son, Grant Adam Barnes and wife, Laci of Monticello; one grandson, Tucker Adam "Little T" Barnes of Monticello; his mother, Mary Katherine Whitmore Barnes of Fordyce; two brothers, David Barnes and wife, Susan of Fordyce and Dr. Seth Barnes and wife, Scarlett of Batesville; his step grandmother, Lou Barnes of Fordyce; seven nephews and three nieces.
Condolences(64)
Lynda Vinson Kerr
Maumelle, AR Sunday, March 17, 2013 Tommy was a special guy and I have fond memories of our school days. I am especially glad for the times our class has had together in recent years, and that Tommy was able to be with us and enjoy them. May he rest in peace and may his family be comforted by God's grace.Kathy Knight Earney
Conway, AR Thursday, March 14, 2013 So many fond memories of Coach Tommy and Kookie....Paul Calhoun
Hattiesburg, MS Tuesday, March 12, 2013 Tommy Barnes was a great inspiration to me and helped mold my attitude to climb mountains when faced with adversity. I ll miss him. May The Lord welcome him home saying job well done.Ashley Price
Monticello, AR Tuesday, March 12, 2013 My deepest sympathy and prayers for Kookie and family. I'm so sorry for your loss.Robin & Kenny Johnson
Monticello, AR Monday, March 11, 2013 Dear Kookie , Grant and families,Words can not express the loss that our community will have by the passing of Tommy. Always remember how much he was loved in this community and hold those memories close. He was so devoted to all that he did and truly a fixture in our town. Our prayers are with each of you.
Robin and Kenny Johnson
Randy and Angie Ables
Hampton, AR Monday, March 11, 2013 Thought alot of Coach Barnes. My parents, Vernon and Patsy Nutt did also. A very nice, thoughtful man, and was good at what he did whether coaching football or selling a skidder to my dad. He will be missed. Angie AblesKK
Fordyce, AR Monday, March 11, 2013 Kookie....my thoughts and prayers are with you and yours. I pray God's mercies upon you.KK
Bishop Sam Wherry
Monticello, AR Monday, March 11, 2013 Tommy Barnes was one outstanding Professional Christian Gentlemen of Integrity and Honor. Tommy and I entered UAM as Freshman in 1969 as Christian Athletes(Tommy Football from Fordyce and Me Basketball from Monticello). We were the beginning of the finale era of then Arkansas A&M and the Intro’s to the UAM era. Tommy was a hit from the outset as an Athlete, Student and in Academics. We joined forces with Espie Moore and begin the Initiative of The Fellowship of Christian Athletes Tommy serving as First President and I Chaplin. Barnes was like a glue that made life competitive and honorable to be a Weevil and it is reflected in his most Stellar and Honorable Career Following UAM and at UAM as Coach and Christian Gentlemen. Death is not a Blind Alley for Tommy Barnes that is leading him into a State of Nothing ness, It is an open Door that is leading him into Eternal Life with the Primary Entity he Loved and /cherished the Most, Jesus Christ for he Truly Loved the Almighty God and the Blessings/Favor is a reflection of this one Giant of a man Life. History will honor him forever for truly he represents what any Great and Historic Institution like UAM desires from all of it’s Students and Alumni. TOMMY BARNES!Karen Rippy Harris
Sherwood, AR Sunday, March 10, 2013 Kookie, so sorry I couldn't be there this weekend. But, you and your family have been on my mind since the moment I heard about Tommy. Please, know I have been praying for you and will continue to pray for your peace and comfort.I know how crazy you were about Tommy and I know God will comfort you in the days to come.Terry and Patti Hutcherson
Little Rock, AR Sunday, March 10, 2013 All our sympathy is with you at this time. We will never forget all your support at Topp's Pizza. Stay strong.Rick and Diane Brumley
Des Arc, AR Sunday, March 10, 2013 Tommy was a great childhood friend, like a brother, and a positive influence on my life. He will be greatly missed.Laura Lee Dearman
, AR Sunday, March 10, 2013 Kookie, Grant and family, I just want you to know my heart is with each of you and you have been in my constant prayers. Tommy was such a special person and affected so many lives in a positive way. Please let us know if there is anything at all we can do for you. With love, Laura LeeJudy & Wesley James
Monticello, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 Kookie and family, so sorry to hear of your loss. Praying the Lord gives you all strength during this difficult time.Judy & Wesley James
Monticello, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 Kookie and family, so sorry to hear of your loss. Praying the Lord gives you all strength during this difficult time.Linda Hornaday West
Fordyce, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 I am so sorry for your loss. Tommy was a fellow classmate of mine. He was a great person. I will always remember him. My thoughts and prayers are with you.Peggy Williams
Monticello, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 Kookie, Grant Adam & family, you are in our thoughts and prayers, He was a great guy & will be missed by everyone, we know that he is in a better place & free of pain. May God bless each of you. Johnny & Peggy WilliamsJohn Sumner, Sumner, and Tot Barnes
Parkdale, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 Kokkie, the Barnes family is so sad for your loss. We know that Tommy is in a better place where there is no sickness or trouble.He was a fine coach and mentor to many young men and woman. Montrose Academy would not have been the educational site it was without Tommy. He made everyone in the state recognize that small school as a power house in its sports program. He will be remembered and missed by all former students, parents, and faculty for his impact on all our lives.
Chancellor Fred Taylor
Little Rock, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 All of us who knew Tommy feel a tremendous loss today. Tommy was a kind and gentle person who enjoyed working with young people whose lives he has influenced forever. I enjoyed my time with Tommy as a coach, employee and fishing partner.Our thoughts and prayers are with Kookie and Grant and all of Tommy's family and loved ones.. Fred and Janice TaylorMark and Kelley Hollingsworth
Hermitage, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 Barnes family ~ Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. With our deepest symphonyMark, Kelley, Brianna Hollingsworth
Janell Green Ray
Fordyce, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 To the Barnes family,May Tommy rest in peace and may The Lord give you comfort in the days to come.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Doogie Darling
Crossett, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 Dear Lou Barnes ands other lovrd onrs - Our thoughts and prayers are with you during your loss. I remember Carl and C.H. very well from my Fordyce lumber Company days as well as you Lou and our hearts are full for you. Doogie and Patsy DarlingLinda and Lezlie Shell
Portland, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We remember Coach Barnes with fond memories at Montrose Academy.Celeste Marks-Hall
Fordyce, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 Our prayers go our to your family. I remember Tommy when I was a little girl in Fordyce and later on at UAM. He was a very special person to me in my life. May God comfort you during this time of loss.Wanda Kulbeth-Harris & Jimmy Harris
Vilonia, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 Sorry for your loss! You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.Sylvia & Bo Kulbeth
Monticello, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 We are thinking of you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayersRichard and Ruth Freer Rothwell
Grenada, MS Saturday, March 9, 2013 Kookie and family our prayers and thoughts for each of you today. Tommy was a great person and a wonderful christian example for so many. Our continued prayers during this difficult time.Tommy Jones
Little Rock, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 Our prayers go out to the entire Barnes family.Coach Barnes was positively instrumental in so many lives.
As a team, we never ended a practice or game without reciting the Lords Prayer; and therefore I -nor many team mates- will ever forget it or him.
Sherry & Dale Rogers
, TX Saturday, March 9, 2013 Tommy was one of those people who could always make you smile. He will be missed. Our sympathy to Kookie and his family.Carla Smith
Little Rock, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 To the Barnes Family: So sorry to hear about Tommy. He was a fine man who always made me laugh. Prayers to your family.Jimmy Smead
Hampton, AR Saturday, March 9, 2013 Kookie, so sorry to hear about Tommy. Prayers for you and the family.Linda Daniels
Bearden, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Kookie and Family, I'm so sorry to hear about Tommy. We went years without seeing each other, but I was so glad that our class started getting together every year for the past few years. It was great spending time with him. I will cherish those memories for the rest of my life. You're in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you and your family, Linda (Slaughter) DanielsRoger & Grayson Williams
Fordyce, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 We are so sorry for the loss of Tommy. You all are in are thoughts and prayers. Roger & Grayson WilliamsAndy and Becky Bryant
Sheridan, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Kookie, Mary and family,Our hearts are broken for you all. We are so grateful to have been friends with Tommy and for the recent times we got to spend with him. What a loving person he was. We will miss him so much. You are in our thoughts and prayers. With all our love.
Billy Roy & Debbie Beaver
Camden,Ar, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 We are so sorry to hear about Tommy. Been knowing him along time. Saw him at many fishfry's in Camden. You are in our prayers.Carole (Johns) Rushing
Woodlawn, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Kookie, please accept my sincere sympathy. You are in my heart and prayers. I know and understand what you have gone through and will go through if you ever want to talk. I pray that God will grant you the peace and comfort at this difficult time that only He can.Love,
Carole (Johns) Rushing
Patty Mitchell
Monticello, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Words just fail at a time like this. Kookie, Grant and all of Tommys family...he was one in a million!! I remember Coach telling jokes when he worked at Davis Tractor....and how he loved to tell jokes! Such a joy to be around and always had a smile on his face. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. God gained a really special angel last night....Coach Tommy Barnes...RIP.Becky Green-Starnes
Lumberton, NC Friday, March 8, 2013 I am so sorry to hear that Coach Barnes has passed. He was a well-loved and well-respected among his peers and well-loved among his family. I pray God's peace and comfort upon all those who knew and cared for him.Kathy Lou Engelkes
Monticello, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 My thoughts and prayers are with you. I know he was a special husband and father.Travis Barnes
Gosnell, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Seth, Dave, Mary, Kookie & family,I am sorry to hear about Tommy's passing. Tommy was one of the best & will be missed by many. Just remember that there is comfort in Jesus Christ our Lord.
Tracey, Lisa, Kayla, & Jonathan Barnes
Rhonda Wagnon
Little Rock, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 My prayers are with you.Betty (Bee) Rodden
The Villages, FL Friday, March 8, 2013 So very sorry for your loss. Tommy was a really nice guy! You all are in my thoughts and prayers!Bee (UAM-'76)
Pam Herrington
Hot Springs, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Kookie I was so sad to hear about Tommy. I just wanted you to know you are in my thoughts and prayers.Randy and Karen Green
Longview, TX Friday, March 8, 2013 Sorry to hear of the loss to my extended family. Tommy may be lost from this life but his legacy will live on in the lives and memories of those he touched. My condolences and prayers are spoken for you.Scott Finley
Fayetteville, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Seth and Scarlett,I'm sorry to hear about your loss of Tommy. He took Shannon and I under his wing when we were at UAM. He will surely be missed. You guys are in our thoughts and prayers.
Scott Finley
Gary and Candy Hillis
Monticello, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Kookie, Grant Adam and Family,Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you. Tommy will be greatly missed by many people. It was a blessing having know him all these years.
Love,
Gary and Candy
Nolan & Rosie Pierce
Fordyce, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 with deepest sympathy to the familySam and Debbie Leslie
Monticello, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 We are sad to hear of Tommy's passing. We are praying for comfort and strength for all of you.Wanda Young
Wilmar, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Kookie and family I am sorry for your loss,you know I understand what you are going through,prayer for you. WandaKim and David Hoffman
Little Rock, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Kookie, Grant and Family,We are so very sorry for your loss. Praying God will comfort you during this sad time. Please accept our sincere sympathy.
Kim and David
April Dablock Barnett
, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Praying for the Barnes family. Sorry for the loss, Tommy was a great man and great coach. He will be missed by all former teams he coached and all schools he taught and coached at as well. Prayers are with the family.Rex & Brenda Robinson
Fordyce, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Are hearts are so full, but heaven has gained a fine man. Ya'll will always be in our prayers. Love ya'llRex & Brenda Robinson
Fordyce, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Are hearts are so full, but heaven has gained a fine man. Ya'll will always be in our prayers. Love ya'llCary & Debra Marshall
Monticello, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 So sorry. Will certainly miss him. Prayers for all of you.Margaret Prewitt
Fordyce, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Mary & family,I am so sorry to hear the news about Tommy, but rest assured, he is in heaven calling plays. Our families are so connected, I feel like I have lost a little brother. You and all your family are and will continue to be in our hearts and prayers. He leaves such a legacy. He touched so many lives and changed them, too. RIP , Tommy Barnes --FOREVER PEACE IS YOURS TO ENJOY.
Aaron Hollis
Littleton, CO Friday, March 8, 2013 Coach Barnes recruited me out of high school and was always there for me the 4 years I played under him. Always a Christian first, a truly great man. He will be missed.Wayne & Jo Ann Keeton
Hot Springs, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 We are thinking of you today. May God bless and keep your family safe.Blair Brown
Star City, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Tommy Barnes was a fine example of what a man is suppose to be. He changed the lives of hundreds of young men. I know this to be true because he changed mine. He will always be loved and respected and held in the highest reguard by my family. Our thoughts and prayers go to his family.Eunice Watson Pierce
Hot Springs, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Mary, Kookie, and family, My heartfelt sympathy to you in the loss of Tommy. I know you are so proud of all his accomplishments and how many lives he touch. May God give you peace and strength during this time of sorrow. You are in our prayersAndy and Nancy Selman
Little Rock, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Kookie,Grant and family,So sorry about Tommy! More sorry for your loss,because now he can rest.We love y'all and we'll be praying for you !Ken McFalls
Monticello, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 So sad, so young, so brave, so missed and such a wonderful human being. I’ve had the pleasure and opportunity to know you since high school. The world just lost a true shining star. May God bless your family and provide solace to all who knew and loved you. Rest in peace my friend.Kenny Lacewell
Bryant, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 So sorry to hear about Tommy. He was a good guy and also a very good football coach. He will be missed by all his friends.Pat Savage Montgomery
Monticello, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 So very sorry. I have wonderful memories of Kookie and Tommy. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.Deborah Reeves
Wilmar, AR Friday, March 8, 2013 Kookie, Grant, & Lacy. We are so sorry for your loss. We will all miss Coach Barnes. You are in our hearts and prayers.Wesley, Debbie
&
The Moore Girls
John and Lisa Juneau
Arp, TX Friday, March 8, 2013 Coach Barnes made such a difference in our lives. We are blessed to know him. We send our love and sympathy to Kookie and the family?