Billy Barnes, 54, made career in golf course management
July 5, 2024
William Michael Barnes of Hagley Estates died June 19 of complications following surgery. He was 54.
Known as Billy, he was the son of Deborah Curtis and the late Michael Barnes, and the stepson of Linda Barnes.
He was remembered as a humble man woven together with love, integrity, respect, passion, determination and humor.
He had a love for his family, music, nature, water and people. And also for Peter Pan Honey Roasted Crunchy Peanut Butter, his family said.
A hippie at heart, Billy was a nature boy. He knew the scientific name for each plant or tree. Following that love of nature, he earned his degree in horticulture and lived out his passion through his professional career in the golf course management and landscaping industry. He took care of golf courses across South Carolina, spending the last 10 years as a senior manager at Debordieu Colony.
Mr. Barnes and his wife, the former Jennifer Setzer, dated in high school, reconnected and married in 2017. He is also survived by his daughters, Jordyn Mooney (Shane) and Janie Barnes, and his stepsons, Terry and Jacob Hancock. He was looking forward to the birth of his first grandchild in October.
He is also survived by his in-laws, Rick Setzer and David and Kristin Setzer, along with his uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Mr. Barnes also had a deep connection with music of all kinds. He played guitar and for his 50th birthday started his journey with the drums. Songs had meaning to him, and he would remind people, “If you get confused … just listen to the music play.” (The Grateful Dead)
He was happiest near the water. His ideal day would consist of family, friends, and either a golf club or fishing pole in hand. Or just a cooler and a volleyball on the beach.
He will be remembered at a gathering July 13 at 5 p.m. at Quigley’s Next Door.
An account was set up at South State Bank to support his family. Donations may be made via Zelle to jennifer@carolinabarnes.com or Venmo at billyandjenbarnes.
