Zad Russell Barnes

  Zad Russell “Punky” Barnes, 80, of Elizabeth City, NC, passed away Monday, June 24, 2024, in Virginia Beach General Hospital.

 Mr. Barnes was born in Camden County on November 24, 1943, and was the son of the late James Edward Barnes, Sr. and Lucille Elizabeth Sawyer Barnes Smithson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepfather, Phillip Smithson, his son, William “Bill” Umphlett, Jr., a sister, and by six brothers.

 A retired heavy equipment mechanic from Tidewater Construction, he was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, NASCAR and a good western!

 Surviving is his wife of 54 years, Linda Beals Barnes; four daughters, Elizabeth Diane Barnes, Leigh Ann Edwards (husband, John), both of Shawboro, Martha Elise Umphlett and Samantha Dawn Perry, both of Elizabeth City; a sister, Jean; four grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and a great-great-grandson.

 In accordance with his wishes, private services will be held.

 Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, NC, is assisting the family with arrangements, and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.