Memorial Trees
A
Anonymous
March 14, 2025
Memorial trees planted for:
George Ellis Barnes, Jr.
<p>It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of George Ellis Barnes Jr., who unexpectedly left us on March 5, 2025, in Rochester, NY. Born on August 6, 1976, in Erie, PA, George was the beloved son of Hortense Barnes and George Ellis Barnes Sr. He is predeceased by his paternal grandparents, John David Barnes and Jeanetta Mae Neal Barnes, and his maternal grandparents, Dora Lee Gillespie Barnes and Leander Barnes.</p><p><br></p><p>George is survived by his children, George Ellis Barnes III and Jaidin Marcone Barnes of Erie, his step daughter, Veatriz Perez of Erie; his parents, Hortense and George Ellis Barnes Sr.; his sisters, Yannette Barnes of Erie, and Antania Barnes Priester (Henry) of Round Rock, TX; his grandchildren, Saverio Amaru Perez Wiley and Avila Carmen Perez Wiley; and ex-wife Christy Stewart of Erie, along with two nephew Bryce Barnes of Philadelphia, PA and Brayden Priester of Round Rock, TX along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.</p><p><br></p><p>A proud graduate of Central High School, after graduation George went to the Airforce and due to his sickle cell, he was honorably discharged. He furthered his education at Mercyhurst University, where he earned both a BS in Intelligence Studies (Competitive Analysis) and an AS in Criminal Justice/Police Science. His professional career was marked by his co-authorship of the book Competitive Intelligence Dashboards (CID’s): A How-to Guide for the Computer Challenged. George’s expertise in business intelligence, sales management, and leadership led him to present at the prestigious 2012 Strategic Consortium of Intelligence Professionals (SCIP) Conference in Philadelphia, PA.</p><p><br></p><p>Despite his professional success, George's true passion lay in health and fitness, particularly as he bravely battled Sickle Cell Disease throughout his life. His leadership and sales experience eventually led him to pursue entrepreneurship, where he became a wellness coach and personal trainer. In April 2019, he and his business partner launched Que’s Fitness World: Health & Wellness in Rochester, NY, a venture that embodied George’s commitment to helping others achieve their best selves. One of George’s favorite mottos was, "Due diligence always pays off," a philosophy that guided both his professional and personal life.</p><p><br></p><p>George attended Browncroft Church in Rochester, NY, where he sought to continue fulfilling God's purpose for his life. In addition to his work in health and wellness, he was a compassionate leader who was deeply committed to serving his community. He worked with youth through a local pastor in Rochester, assisted children in a group home with Cerebral Palsy, and volunteered at a local Adult Senior Living Center to improve the daily lives of seniors through fitness. His thirst to help others led him to further his education, earning additional certifications in nutrition, life coaching, and body contouring esthetics, all of which were incorporated into his growing business. Prior to his death he was a substitute teacher for West Irondequoit School District of Rochester, NY. He was in the process of coordinating with multiple agencies to conduct blood drives and provide education on Sickle Cell Awareness.</p><p><br></p><p>George was a Sickle Cell Warrior, fighting bravely against the challenges of the disease. His strength, determination, and spirit inspired all who knew him. Above all, George was a devoted and loving father. He cherished his family and friends, and his warmth, generosity, and dedication to helping others were evident in everything he did.</p><p><br></p><p>George’s legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched. He was a blessing to this world and will be forever remembered for his unwavering love, passion, and commitment to making the world a better place.</p><p><br></p><p>A viewing is scheduled at Brugger Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1595 W 38th St Erie, PA 16508 on Friday from 2pm to 4pm 6 to 8pm and funeral is scheduled for 1 pm on Saturday, at Second Baptist Church, Pastor Darrell Cook will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate George’s life. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American sickle Cell Anemia Association, 2390 East 79th St., Cleveland, OH 44104.</p><p><br></p>August 6, 1976 - March 5, 202508/06/197603/05/2025
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