Nancy Ellen Barnes

Nancy Ellen Vancil Barnes, 65, of Hillsboro, passed away on January 20, 2025, in Huntsville, Alabama. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date and time. Nancy was born in Greensboro, North Carolina on January 29, 1959, to Frances Anne Moore Vancil and James Leon Vancil. She is survived by her husband, Paul Barnes; daughter, Meaghan McFerrin; son, James McFerrin; two sisters, Carol Tipton (husband, Ernie); and Leslie Mills (husband, Eric). Nancy was a member of the graduating class of Forest Park High School, Forest Park Ohio in 1977 before moving to Decatur, Alabama. She earned a bachelor's degree from Athens State University and enjoyed her work as an independent contractor currently working as a management system consultant and auditor. Nancy had a talent for art and a passion for outdoor activities, photography, genealogy, and all animals, but in particular horses. She purchased her first horse, Bridget, at eighteen, and the one became two just days later when Spooky was born unexpectedly. Since that time, Nancy consistently remained active in the equine community, particularly with her husband attending Buffalo River Trails events and competing locally, most recently showing on January 18 at the Winter Blues Ranch Show at the Alabama A & M University Agribition Center in Huntsville. She loved to travel and frequently invited her sisters to join along as she explored Japan, Spain, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom. She and her husband were planning trips for a cruise and to visit Ireland and Scotland. Her family was the joy of all of her life. Nancy fiercely loved her children, and her children were an active part of her daily life. Nothing made her happier than spending time with her kids or talking with friends and family about Meaghan and Jamie and their latest accomplishments. Nancy's husband of 5 years, Paul, was her high school sweetheart with whom, she had reconnected in the spring of 2019. They quickly rekindled their relationship and made their vows pledging to spend their lives together. Together again with Paul and near her family, Nancy was extremely happy and was living the life she always dreamed of. She was preceded to the kingdom by her parents, Frances Moore and James Vancil; and two nephews, Justin and Cameron Tipton.

Nancy Ellen Barnes

January 29, 1959 - January 20, 2025