Curtis Roy Barnes – Galatia, IL

Curtis Roy Barnes, passed away on August 21, 2025, at his home, Galatia, IL, at the age of 82, after a very short time of illness.

Curt was born Jan. 17, 1943 in Carlinville, IL, to Roy C. and Thelma Barnes. Curt graduated from Carbondale Community High School. He received his Bachelors & Masters Degrees from Southern Illinois University. On June 18, 1966, he married Priscilla A Pulliam. They met when Priscilla was 13 years old and his father came to pastor New Hope Church. When his Father left New Hope, Fern Pulliam said “Well we got rid of the preacher, but not his son”. They had been married 59 Years before his death. They spent 24 hours a day together since 1984. They have one son, Timothy Paul Barnes, of Galatia, IL.

Curtis taught history at Sesser High School for 14 years. Then at age 38, he decided to go to Law School. He graduated from Southern Illinois University, School of Law, at the top of his Class, in 1984. Upon graduation, he decided to build his law office on his farm, where he has practiced law until his death. Curtis and Priscilla have also operated an Income Tax Business for 53 Years. He valued his clients, and thought of them as friends. In 1982, Curtis & Priscilla purchased two Appaloosa mares. Since then, they have bred and raised many Appaloosa World Champions, along with a few Paints and Quarter Horses. The Office displays over 150 Trophies.

Curtis enjoyed hauling all over the country to horse shows, chasing points for Timothy and Priscilla. He was the “point keeper”. The Appaloosa Horse Club knew his point tally was accurate. Other exhibitors relied on his records. He valued all the fine people he met from different parts of the country. He was an avid reader and could quote you dates & locations of every Civil War Battlefield, and had visited most of them. His World History was equally accurate, even at age 82. When he started First Grade, he could not wait to go to school to learn to read. Curt had his standards & opinions and he always stood for what he believed. Curtis was a Born-Again Christian, with a deep belief in God, and that Jesus died for his sins, and we have the assurance that he is with God.

Curt loved music, specifically, Country, Bluegrass, Gospel, & Polka. He loved sports; basketball, baseball, football, track, horse racing, Tour De France. There are so many friends to thank for their prayers and support, you can never know how much you have helped us with your kind words, cards, food, and other remembrances. Curtis R. Barnes is survived by his wife, Priscilla A Pulliam Barnes, his son, Timothy P Barnes, Tim’s partner and long time Office Manager, Norman C Wiemken, of Galatia, IL. Surviving are also: brother, Daniel Barnes, of Minnesota; sister, Elaine Barnes, of Washington; sister, Paula Barnes, of England; sister, Rosemary Barnes, of France; and sister, Rebecca Barnes, of Oklahoma. Surviving also are his beloved dog, Maxwell Dodge Barnes, who went to the Office every day with Curt; and his Grand Dog, Winston Vegas Barnes Wiemken, who spent every day with Curt in the Office, both eagerly greeted all clients.

Thank you to Southern Illinois Hospice, and Dr. Eubanks and his Nursing Staff, for their kindness, understanding, and guidance thru this heartbreaking time. Curtis chose Cremation and the Family promised to fulfill his wishes. A Celebration of Life will be held at Stricklin Funeral Home, 503 E Sloan St, Harrisburg, visitation from 12 Noon until 5 PM, Saturday, August 30. At 5 PM there will be a Goodbye Service with Reverend Jerry Williams in charge. If you choose to donate a remembrance you may donate to Southern Illinois Hospice or any Charity of your choice. Again, thank you so much for your thoughts and prayers.