John "JB" Clifton Barnes

John Clifton Barnes 

"JB" 

August 10, 1971 – November 26, 2024 

It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to our beloved John “JB” Barnes, who passed away on November 26, 2024, at the age of 53. Born on August 10, 1971, in Salt Lake City, UT. JB was raised in Burley, Idaho, and made his home in Rio Rancho, New Mexico.

JB leaves behind his devoted wife, Meghan Barnes, whom he married on March 29, 2019. Their love was a bright light, and he cherished every moment with her. He is also deeply loved by his daughter Tessla Anderson, as well as his mother and stepfather, Nadine and Bill Rutherford, his father and stepmother, John and Janice Barnes, and his siblings: Laurie Porter, Carrie Wilkerson, Matthew Key, Levi Barnes, Emily Zamarripa, and Becky Miles. JB is also remembered fondly by his former wife, Joan Payton-Few, with whom he shared a meaningful chapter of his life including the raising of their daughter, Tessla. JB’s life was also blessed by many members of his extended family, in-laws, friends and his closest friends Michael Yates, with whom he shared nearly 30 years of friendship and service, and Donald Hare, a close friend in recent years.

A proud Air Force Veteran, he served his country honorably in the U.S. Air Force from February 1990 to March 2010 and achieved the rank of E-7/ Master Sergeant. JB dedicated 20 years of his life to serving as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician, a role in which he found both purpose and pride. Military Education: USAF Senior NCO Academy; NCO; NCO Academy; EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) Advanced Access and Disablement Course; Electronic Principles; NATO Medical Intelligence Course; Sling Load Inspector Certification; NATO Medical Intelligence Course; Airman Leadership School; Explosive Ordnance Disposal Specialist; Explosive Ordnance Disposal Preliminary. John completed several tours of duty overseas to include Iraq and Afghanistan. His awards and ribbons consisted of: Defense Meritorious Service Medal with 1 oak leaf cluster, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with 4 oak leaf clusters, Air Force Achievement Medal with 4 oak leaf clusters, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with 4 oak leaf clusters, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with 5 oak leaf clusters, American Defense Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal with 1 service star, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with 1 service star, Iraq Campaign Medal with 1 service star, Global War On Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Air Force Overseas Ribbon Short with 1 oak leaf cluster, Air Force Overseas Ribbon Long, Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon with Gold Border with 3 oak leaf clusters, Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service with 4 oak leaf clusters, USAF NCO PME Graduate Ribbon with 1 oak leaf cluster, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon with 1 service star, AF Training Ribbon and NATO Medal. His passion for service continued as he then spent 14 years as an Explosive Specialist with the Department of Homeland Security. His career was a testament to his selflessness, courage, and unwavering commitment to others.

Beyond his work, JB had many passions that brought him joy. He loved watching Boise State football as well as the Baltimore Ravens, gaming, watching TV, movies, comedy, reading, listening to music, was an avid fish keeper, and enjoyed capturing the world through photography and videography. But more than anything, JB’s greatest joy was his family. His love for Meghan was evident to all who knew him, and together with their three beloved dogs—Dublin, Cersei, and Scully—his home was filled with laughter, warmth, and love.

JB’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering loyalty touched the lives of all who were lucky enough to know him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to share in his life. He will be profoundly missed, but forever remembered with love.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday December 7, 2024 at 1:00 PM at Daniels Family Funeral Service, 2400 Southern Blvd SE, Rio Rancho, NM. For those unable to attend in person you will be able to view services via this link:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87232309391?pwd=KahY1RKBwcxh3NVL4iRfcr-Av7qm1H5.1  and using passcode: 1234

The family would like to thank all family, friends and coworkers who have expressed their condolences and in lieu of flowers we’d love if you would consider a donation to the EOD Warrior Foundation in John’s honor via this link  https://shorturl.at/1SlpB.