Barry Elton Starnes

Barry Elton Starnes, 68, passed away after a long illness on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at the Medical University of South Carolina-Charleston surrounded by his family.

He was born July 26, 1957, in Columbia, South Carolina to the late Aaron Luther Starnes and Minnie Althea Starnes. Barry was a 1975 graduate of Airport High School. He began working at Tri-City Fuel and Heating Company after graduation, and while there, he received his journeyman license in HVAC certification. In 1985, he began working for the University of South Carolina and retired from USC after serving 33 years.

Mr. Starnes was a member of Grace Baptist Church, West Columbia, SC. Upon retirement, Barry enjoyed woodworking and anything outdoor related. He cherished the time spent with his loved ones, and he will be deeply missed by his entire family.

Barry is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Charlene Keisler Starnes; sons Christopher Wayne Starnes (Brandy) and Jonathan Mitchell Starnes; three grandchildren; sister Edith Starnes Hudson (Brian) and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Thompson Funeral Home, 4720 Augusta Road, Lexington, SC with graveside service at 12:00 p.m. at Woodridge Memorial Park, 138 Corley Mill Road, Lexington, SC.

In leu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the staff at Lexington Medical Center and the liver transplant team and the critical care unit at MUSC-Charleston.