The American Sweet Potato Marketing Institute, the U.S. Sweet Potato Council, and the North Carolina Sweet potato Commission including the broader agricultural community mourn the loss of Johnny Barnes, abeloved husband, father, leader, innovator and tireless advocate for North Carolina agriculture. Mr. Barnes, 61, died 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 sweet potato industry through his leadership at Barnes Farming Corporation and Farm Pak Products. He was a driving force behind the company’s success, helping to position it as one of the largest sweet potato operations in the world.

Mr. Barnes ' passion for farming extended beyond production. He was a founding force behind many sweet potato 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. Notably, Mr. Barnes, recognized the opportunity to help form and lead the American Sweet Potato Marketing Institute in 2014 and served as its president until the spring of 2025. This organization helps promote the national industry introducing and marketing the world’s premium sweet potatoes across the globe.

“Johnny was more than a grower—he was a visionary who helped elevate North Carolina sweetpotatoes onto the global stage,” said 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,” said 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, Mr. Barnes was known for his deep love of family, hisgenerosity 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 andcolleagues across the industry.

The American Sweet Potato Marketing Institute, the U.S. Sweet Potato Council and the North CarolinaSweetpotato Commission extends its 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 20,2025 at Ridgecrest Worship Center, Rocky Mount,NC. A visitation will be held the day before, Saturday, July 19 from 3:30 p.m.-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