Gordon Ray Barnhart

Gordon Ray “Barney” Barnhart, 76, of Chillicothe, Ohio, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, following a brief illness.

Barney was born on July 7, 1949, in Louisa. He married the love of his life, Sharon Stump, on August 22, 1992. Sharon preceded him in death on September 1, 2021. Their love was the foundation of a life centered on family, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

He is survived by his children: Ernie (Tia) Cyrus of Chillicothe, JJ (Amanda) Cyrus of Chillicothe, Michele (Mike Thomas) Barnhart of Williamsport, and daughter-in-law Tabby Steele of Circleville. He was a proud and loving grandfather to sixteen grandchildren: Austen, Alice, Lexi, Ernie, Gordon, Bentley, Weston, Junior, Haley, Cassy, Natalie, Caleb, Devin, Ava, Myles, and Wyatt, and one great-grandchild, Coalson Crosby.

He is also survived by his brother Richard (Cathy) Tuttle of Williamsport; his sister Pam Proehl of Bainbridge; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter Holly Cyrus, his son Lance Steele, and his sister, Anita Barnhart.

Barney was, above all else, a family man. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and nothing made him happier than being surrounded by them. Whether he was at the ball field, taking family trips, or teaching them to drive his car out in the field while he laughed from the passenger seat, he created memories that will be cherished forever. He instilled in his children and grandchildren the true meaning of love, loyalty, and family.

Barney proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he dedicated 43 years to the police force at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center, where he retired after a long and honorable career of service to others.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00pm on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at the Haller Funeral Home. Military graveside honors conducted by the Ross County Veterans Honor Guard will follow at the Charleston Church of the Brethren Cemetery. Friends are invited to join the family for visitation on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 from 5:00pm-8:00pm at the funeral home.

Barney will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his laughter, his strength, and the immense love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he helped create.