Pendleton Co. — Gary Wayne Barnard, 79, of Pendleton County, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, June 3, 2026.
Born on March 8, 1947, Gary was the son of the late Marjorie Anderson Haley and Robert Blades Barnard. He was a graduate of Pendleton County High School, Class of 1965. On March 9, 1973, he married the love of his life, Ann Elizabeth Ramey Barnard. Together they shared 53 years of marriage, building a life centered on family, faith, and service to others.
Gary was known throughout the community for his cheerful spirit, kind heart, and willingness to lend a helping hand whenever needed. Many remember him from walking the streets as the local mailman with the United States Postal Service. Others remember him as a coach, whether middle school basketball, recreation baseball, or Upward basketball. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and continued his commitment to fellow veterans as a dedicated member of Hardin-Browning Post 109, where he proudly served alongside his brothers in service. He was also a former member of the Pendleton County Board of Education and devoted countless hours to the Kentucky Wool Festival, organizing parking and shuttle operations for many years.
A faithful member of Antioch Mills Christian Church, Gary served on the church leadership team and taught numerous Bible studies. His strong faith guided his life and inspired a lifetime of service, much of which was carried out quietly and without recognition. He was a pillar of the community whose influence and kindness touched many lives.
Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Ann Barnard; his daughter, Julie (Josh) Piatt of Smithville, Ohio; his son, Kevin (Elisha) Barnard of Falmouth; his grandchildren, Emrie Doerr, Noah Barnard, Elli (Kalem) Gosney, Carter (Sydney) Piatt, Ethan Piatt, Brennan Piatt, and Ramey Piatt; and his sisters, Janet Bruin, Dianna Wilson, April Gillespie, and Norma Thoms.
In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by his daughter, Amy Lynn Barnard Doerr, in 2006, and his brother, Robert “Bobby” Barnard.
Gary’s legacy of faith, service, generosity, and love for his family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to his entire care team: Laura Askren with Senior Care Solutions, St. Elizabeth Home Health, and Hospice of Hope Maysville.
Visitation for Gary were held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at the Antioch Mills Christian Church. Funeral services were on Monday, June 8, 2026, also at the church.
Under full military honors by the Hardin Browning Post 109, Gary was laid to rest at the Mt. Vernon Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Antioch Mills Christian Church or Mt. Vernon Cemetery.