James Lee “Jimbo” Barnwell, 76, of Orange, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2026, in Beaumont, Texas.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, June 5, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend David Turner. Burial will follow at Orange Forest Lawn in Orange.
Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Friday, June 5, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Born on February 10, 1950, in Orange, Texas, to James R. Barnwell and Dora Barte Barnwell, Jimbo built a life rich in dedication and simple pleasures. For nearly three decades, Jimbo was a Senior Engineer at DuPont, a career marked by his commitment and expertise. When he wasn't at work, you could often find him out on the water, fishing, or diligently working on his fishing rods and boat – pursuits that brought him immense joy and peace. Jimbo was also a faithful member of Little Cypress Baptist Church, where he spent decades teaching bible study and his presence was a quiet testament to his faith. He will be remembered for his steadfast spirit and the life he so genuinely lived.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Shari Jean Barnwell; his daughter, Denise Blackmon and her husband, Brett; his son, Bradley Barnwell and his wife, Stacey; his cherished grandchildren, Cassie Denise Blackmon, Ty Shannon Blackmon, Makayla McLean, and Zachary Drummond; and his great-grandchildren, James Theodore McLean, Wiley James Drummond, and Cohen Drummond. James is also survived by his brothers, Thomas "Tommy" Barnwell and his wife, Tanyia, and Ernest "Ernie" Barnwell and his wife, Terrie; his sister, Nancy Ellen Allen and her husband, Douglas; and numerous other loving family members and friends.
James was preceded in death by his parents, James R. and Dora Barnwell. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.