The American Sweet Potato Marketing Institute, the U.S. Sweet Potato Council, and the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission, as well as the broader agricultural community mourn the loss of Johnny Barnes, a beloved husband, father, leader, innovator and tireless advocate for North Carolina agriculture. Barnes, 61, passed away on July 12, after complications from a recent illness.
A lifelong resident of Spring Hope, Barnes dedicated his life to farming and family, playing a pivotal role in the growth of North Carolina’s sweetpotato industry through his leadership at Barnes Farming Corporation and Farm Pak Products. He was a driving force behind the company’s success.
Barnes’ passion for farming extended beyond production, however. He was a founding force behind many sweetpotato initiatives that shaped market growth, export expansion and advocacy for North Carolina growers. He worked tirelessly with industry groups and policymakers to protect and promote the interests of farmers in the state, region and nation, always doing so with a commitment to integrity. He also helped form and lead the American Sweet Potato Marketing Institute in 2014, and served as its president until spring of 2025.
“Johnny was more than a grower — he was a visionary who helped elevate North Carolina sweetpotatoes onto the global stage,” says Michelle Grainger, executive director of the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission. “His legacy lives in the fields he stewarded, the people he mentored, and the standards of excellence he set for our entire industry. He was not just respected, he was loved.”
“Johnny was a man of quiet strength and unwavering values,” says Jose “Pepe” Calderon, sales manager at Farm Pak. “He believed in doing things the right way — not the easy way. Every person who worked with him learned something about dedication, patience and pride in their work. While his absence leaves a deep void, his impact will be felt for generations. We are thankful that Johnny’s son, Josh Barnes, will continue his father’s legacy by leading Barnes Farming Corporation and carrying forward his father’s vision for innovation and stewardship in agriculture.”
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Barnes was known for his deep love of family, his generosity and his strong faith. He is survived by his wife, North Carolina State Senator Lisa Stone Barnes; their children Bethany (Grayson), Josh (Rachel), and Jacy (Charlie); four grandchildren; his loving mother, Maxine (Norman); beloved niece, Brittany (Ryan); and countless extended family members, friends and colleagues across the industry.
The American Sweet Potato Marketing Institute, the U.S. Sweet Potato Council and the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission extend their deepest condolences to the Barnes family and all who had the honor of working alongside him. Johnny Barnes’ legacy is etched in the rich soil of North Carolina and the global recognition of the state’s signature crop.
A memorial service will be held at 3:30 on Sunday, July 20 at Ridgecrest Worship Center, Rocky Mount, N.C. A visitation will be held the day before, Saturday, July 19 from 3:30 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Flowers are accepted or donations can be made to: The Johnny Barnes Foundation for Medical Research: First Carolina Bank, 171 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804
