Ruth “Mae” Barnes

Ruth “Mae” Barnes passed away on April 11, 2026, in Paducah, Kentucky, at the age of 86.

Born on February 5, 1940, in Pasadena, California, Mae loved the dessert and carried herself with a steady, direct presence that those around her came to appreciate.  She is remembered as a woman who spoke plainly, loved deeply, and stood firmly in the role she embraced throughout her life.

Mae devoted herself to her home and family as a homemaker, and she took great pride in creating a welcoming place for others. She was the best mother, always present for her children, and she loved having children around her at all times. She especially enjoyed babysitting and found joy in caring for little ones, offering them comfort, attention, and kindness. Her home was a place where children were welcomed, laughter was common, and love was freely given.

She was an avid gardener who found peace and satisfaction in tending to the earth. Mae also loved all animals and had a gentle heart for every creature she encountered. Her interests reflected her creative and nurturing nature, and she especially enjoyed making crafts. She could make anything with crafts, and her work often reflected the seasons and holidays, bringing beauty and cheer to those who saw it. Her handmade creations were a reflection of her imagination, patience, and care.
 
Ruth Mae Barnes is survived by one daughter, Melodie Barnes; five sons, Gordon Beal, Edward Barnes, Timothy Barnes, Gerald Beal, and Jacob Barnes; one brother, Bobby Proctor; a bushel (28) of grandchildren; a peck (45) of great-grandchildren; and a lot (11) of hugs around the neck through her great-great-grandchildren. 
 
She was preceded in death by her husband of 32 years, Arthur Barnes; her father, Alfred Proctor; her mother, Jessie Yarrow Lansing; three daughters, Marta Barnes, Melissa Barnes, and Gloria Larkins; one son, William Barnes; and two brothers, James Proctor and Donald Proctor.
 
A memorial service will be held at 1 P.M. on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the Milner and Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Paducah with Timothy Barnes officiating.  Visitation will take place from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the funeral home. 
 
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of gifts to the Hinkley Bible Church, 37313 Hinkley Road, Hinkley, California 92347, or to missionary Rocco Panepinto, P.O. Box 825, Humboldt, Tennessee 38343-0825.    
 
Share a memory or leave an encouraging message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.