Barney Leavern Stokes, a servant of The Lord Jesus Christ, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2024 in Savannah surrounded by his loving family at the age of 84.  Barney was born in Savannah, Georgia on April 24, 1939 to Ellis and Ruth Stokes.

Barney grew up in Savannah and met the love of his life, Minnie Miles, in Metter, Georgia.  They were married on May 8, 1960.  They were married for 64 years and had two children, Ronnie and Elaine.  Barney loved to hunt in his younger days, fish and spend time with his family.  He was a self-made carpenter and was known for being a master in his trade.  He built the home he and Minnie have lived in for over 30 years.

Barney came to know the Lord in 1981, and served his church and his Savior faithfully.  He served as a deacon and chairman of deacons for many years, and was recently bestowed the honor of deacon emeritus.  He was known for being bold in his faith and telling others about the Lord and what Jesus had done for him.  He was truly a godly man sold out for Jesus!

He became a papa in 1984 and had 3 grandchildren, Jessica Wilkins (Chris Wilkins), Ashley Wilson (Jerrett Wilson) and Kala Preece (Jordan Preece); and 6 great-grandchildren, Aliyah Wilson, Jeremiah Stokes, Luke Wilkins, Noah Wilson and Max Wilkins.  He will be remembered for being the absolute best Papa in the world.

Barney was preceded in death by his parents, Ellis and Ruth Stokes, his son, Ronnie Stokes, and his sister, Elizabeth Stokes.  Barney is survived by his wife, Minnie Stokes, brother, E.W. Stokes, daughter, Elaine Costin (Chris Costin), 3 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

The visitation will be on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 from 11 a.m. until 12 noon at Sand Hill Baptist Church.  The funeral to honor Barney's life will follow at 12 noon in the sanctuary of the church.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  Rev. Derward Poole and Rev. Royce Hendry will officiate.  The pallbearers will be Richard Steinbach, Thomas Claxton, Fred Karst, Dennis Heater, Chris Wilkins, and Brian Johnson.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Homes - WEST CHATHAM CHAPEL (912) 748-2444