Rex Miller Barnes

Rex Miller Barnes, 92, went into the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on August 15, 2025. Rex was born on March 16, 1933, in Columbia, Missouri, the son of the late Herald and Hermel (Lawler) Barnes.

Rex began his education in a one-room schoolhouse along with his four brothers, Herald Jr, Fred, Roger, and Carl (all deceased). He then attended University High School in Columbia before later graduating from University of Missouri with a mechanical engineering degree, and also ROTC as a Lieutenant in the United States Air Force. Before being called into active duty, Rex began his career at McDonnell Aircraft where he met the love of his life, Helen Mae Daugherty (deceased). Rex served as a reconnaissance pilot from 1955-1959 before entering the reserves where he achieved the rank of Captain. Upon leaving the Air Force, Rex returned to McDonnell (now Boeing) and enjoyed a successful career, later directing the company’s Standards and Calibration Laboratories. Rex and Helen lived in Florissant, Missouri and there they raised their three children, John (deceased), Karen and Lori. He retired in 1992 and moved to his happy place, Table Rock Lake, Missouri in 1995. When not traveling with his wife, Rex could often be found fishing the waters near his home. In 2019, Rex and Helen moved to Indianapolis, Indiana to be closer to family and especially, great-grandchildren.

Rex was a faithful man of God, who served as a deacon for over 50 years. While in retirement, Rex invested his time with the youth of his church. He was a good and kind neighbor to all who knew him. His strong faith inspired those around him, especially as the day drew nearer for him to meet His Savior.

He is survived by his daughters, Karen Pourcho (Robert), and Lori Welch (Clifford), and five grandchildren: Dwayne Barnes, Timothy Barnes, Katheryn Pourcho, John Pourcho (Caitlyn), Stephen Pourcho (Lauren), and nine great-grandchildren: Annabelle, Logan, Ruth, Benjamin, Liam, Elizabeth, one soon to arrive, and two in heaven.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Samaritan’s Purse: Fresh Water Wells #013924.

A celebration of Rex’s life will begin with Visitation at 10 am, followed by a Memorial Service at 11 am on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, MO 65250.