Theodis C. Barnes was born on January 31, 1945, to LuVera and Glover Barnes Sr. in Akron, Ohio.  After their passing, Theodis was welcomed into the family of Jessie Bell and Bennie Davis. Ted attended Akron Public Schools, graduating from East High School, where he was a stellar football player, making All-City as a tackle. He worked in several local establishments such as the city potato chip factory, a neighborhood gas station and the Hawthorn State Hospital. Eventually he became employed by the Chrysler Stamping Plant where he worked for 44 years. 

Ted was known for his love for fishing.  He loved cruising Lake Erie and traveling on fishing expeditions with his good friend Bob Gibson.  He developed a love for golfing and could easily be found walking the course with the brothers of Tiretown Golf Club. Ted was also known as an amazing cook.  Walleye, catfish, and salmon were some of his specialties.  Though his ribs were his claim to fame, come Thanksgiving, his fried turkeys were second to none.  

Ted was a faithful member of the Arlington Church of God.  He participated in the Men on the Move Ministry and was a crucial voice in the Men's Sunday School Class.  He was a devoted member of the Men's Chorus and the Mass Choir. 

His enduring devotion to YEPAW blessed hundreds of young people for over 30 years.  he faithfully took his place to manage first day and closing concert traffic.  He dutifully made sure the students received a warm meal every evening of the annual workshop.  His strong presence was reassuring and sincerely appreciated. 

Ted is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Louise Wood and Bernetta Curry; brothers, Glover Barnes, Jr., Carson Barnes, Sr., Hershall Barnes, and Bennie Davis "Sonny" 

Ted is survived by his loving wife, Rev. Dr. Leslie Parker-Barnes; children, Rochelle Barnes, Rachel (Kevin) Johnson, Theo Barnes, Kimberly (Joshua) Porter; granddaughter, Kamryn Porter; grandsons, Trey Barnes and Kevin Johnson; sisters, Tiajuana Robinson and Jacquelyn (Ben) Thurman; brothers, William (Annie) Davis, Bradley (Marlene) Davis, and Calvin (Gloria) Barnes and a host of nieces and nephews.