William Kenneth “Ken” Barnes
William Kenneth “Ken” Barnes went to be with the Lord and Savior on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Methodist Medical Center in Oak Ridge.
Ken was born Feb. 20, 1949, in Oak Ridge to Emil Victor and Martha Shannon Barnes. He graduated from Oak Ridge High School in 1967 before attending Chattanooga State Technical Institute, where he earned an associate degree in engineering. He later accepted a position with the Tennessee Valley Authority and moved to Knoxville, where he met the love of his life, Joyce. The couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in February.
An avid outdoorsman, Ken fulfilled his dream of living on the water when he and Joyce built their home on the banks of the Clinch River in Clinton, where they raised their two sons. He was deeply involved in his sons’ activities, coaching and refereeing basketball and soccer, and serving as scout leader for Troop 131 in Clinton.
Ken was dedicated to serving his community. He worked as a substitute teacher for Clinton City Schools, was active in the Parent Teacher Association, and volunteered with Habitat for Humanity. His commitment to youth and service to the community at large was a cornerstone of his life, driven by a deep desire to give back to the place he called home..
After 19 years with TVA, Ken began a career in real estate, working as an agent and broker for several local agencies. His true passion was teaching others. He owned and operated the Professional School of Real Estate in Knoxville for more than a decade.
A lifelong learner, Ken had a deep curiosity about a wide range of subjects, from real estate law to U.S. history and current events. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge and engaging in thoughtful conversations with family, friends and anyone interested. He will also be remembered for his warm sense of humor and quick wit, which could brighten any room.
Ken was a faithful member of Memorial United Methodist Church, where he participated in the Wesley Men’s Bible Class.
He is survived by his loving wife, Joyce; sons, Will and wife Leeanne, and Joe and wife Anna; grandchildren, Oliver, Lily, Georgia, Frances and Benjamin; sister, Vicki Barnes and husband Philip Ryan; and many cousins and close friends.
A celebration of life was held Aug. 1, 2026, at Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton. The family received friends beginning at 5 p.m., with the service following at 7 p.m. The Rev. Amanda Madson officiated.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Clinch River Habitat for Humanity or the Knoxville Area Rescue Mission.
