Ernest E. Barnes

Ernest Edward Barnes, age 75, of Goliad, Texas, passed away on March 12, 2026, in Victoria, Texas. Born on September 20, 1950, in San Antonio, Texas, to Chester and Helen Peters Barnes, Ernest grew up in the Catholic faith, attending Catholic school until age 16. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from August 1970 to March 1979, including a tour in Vietnam. As a member of both the Medical Corps and as a Behavioral Science Specialist, he provided care and support to his fellow soldiers and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Sharpshooter Badge.

On July 15, 2002, Ernest married the love of his life, Virginia “Ginny” Church, in St. Hedwig, Texas. Their twenty-five years together were marked by deep companionship, shared adventures, and steadfast devotion. After his military service, he worked as a lab technician with Redland Worth until his retirement. In retirement, Ernest and Ginny discovered a shared passion for volunteering with the National Park Service, first at the San Antonio Missions and later at Goliad State Park. Over eleven years and more than 5,000 hours, they served as park hosts, welcomed visitors, and helped preserve Texas history. Ernest developed a particular expertise in the mission sites, especially Mission Rosario. He spent countless hours studying archives, books, and historical records, becoming a trusted authority on the area and generously sharing his knowledge with anyone who sought it.

Ernest and Ginny made Goliad their home ten years ago, where they became valued members of the community through their volunteer work, local events, and participation in the library lecture series. He took great pride in his historical research, his service to others, his wife Ginny, his daughter Mandy, and the many friendships he formed along the way.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Virginia; his daughter Amanda Nasto; his sons Kenneth Burton and Travis Burton; his sister Theresa Nelson and her husband Phillip; grandchildren Levi Nasto and Colton Burton; numerous nieces and nephews; and many dear friends and colleagues from Texas Parks and Wildlife–Goliad State Park. He was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Chester Barnes; his sister, Joan Ross; and his brother, Chester Barnes Jr.