Gene Barnes, 59, of Mt. Vernon, Illinois passed away at 1:28 P.M. on Friday, April 19, 2013 at his home in Mt. Vernon, Illinois surrounded by his family after having spent the previous evening with his grandchildren. He was born on Tuesday, January 12, 1954 in Saint Louis, Missouri to Harold Eugene Barnes, Sr. and Janet Ernestine (Strong) Barnes. He married Theresa Neal on June 14, 1975 in Mount Vernon, Illinois. Gene is survived by his wife: Theresa Barnes of Mount Vernon, Illinois, mother: Janet Barnes of Belleville, Illinois, son: Matthew Barnes and wife Debra of Mount Vernon, Illinois, twin daughters: Brandy James and husband Josh of Mount Vernon, Illinois and Crystal Reeves and husband Jim of Celina, Texas, nine grandchildren: Maddy, Emma, Ellie, Jake, Anna, and Jesse James of Mount Vernon, Illinois; Spencer Flanagan of Celina, Texas; Dane Reeves of Celina, Texas; and Mason Reeves (on the way) of Celina, Texas, three step grandchildren: Shareef Aissa; Melanie Aissa; and Nora Aissa, step great granddaughter: Ellanora Aissa, two sisters: Angela and Robyn Barnes, brother: Brian Barnes, father-in-law: Walter Neal of Mount Vernon, Illinois, and several nieces and nephews. His father, grandparents: Mary and Moman Davis, and mother-in-law: Barbara Neal preceded him in death. Gene worked as a truck driver for Beelman Trucking Company and was a printer by trade. He enjoyed spending all of his time with his children, grandchildren, and wife Theresa. He fought a long 5 year battle with cancer. He was a member of Connection Christian Church. In honor of Gene's wishes he will be cremated and memorial services will be held at a later date.