Andre Leonard Barnes was born on June 8, 1960, to Charles James Barnes and Thelma Dixson Barnes in Fort Pierce, Florida.

He attended St. Lucie County Schools, graduating from Fort Pierce Central High School in 1978. He later went on to attend Florida A&M University where he earned his Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in 1984.

Bro. Andre accepted Christ at Metropolitan Cathedral of Truth under the care and spiritual leadership of Pastors Kennith and Helena Barrington. While at Metro, he was an active participant in their Dance Ministry for many years before relocating back to his hometown of Fort Pierce, Florida to care for his father in 2016.

Andre spent over 30 years as an Educator in the Florida Public School Systems teaching Art in Leon, Gadsden, and St. Lucie County. During the summers he worked to bring art education and enrichment with Tallahassee Parks and Recreation as well as various private and faith-based camps and programs.

Andre was a skilled multi-disciplinary artist. He was known for his use of pencils for portrait renderings, but was also a skilled pastel, watercolor, and T-shirt artist. He was a featured artist with exhibits and displays at the St. Lucie County Public Library, as well as being commissioned for murals and paintings for local businesses throughout the state of Florida.

As a father and father-figure to many in his community, he exemplified patience, strong work ethic, diplomacy, and served as a consistent source of levity.

Andre will be remembered for his artistic talent, his witty humor, his effervescent energy, and willingness to serve.

Andre Barnes transitioned to eternal life on July 7, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Thelma Barnes.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his daughter, Victoria Barnes; his sons, Julian Barnes (Julie Le) and Cameron Cathey (Boshia Richardson); the mother of his children, Camilla Lavonne (Rentz) Barnes; his granddaughters, Nova Cathey, Adirah Cathey, and Chloe Barnes; his sisters, Loressa (Eric) Flowers and Karen Moye; and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, godchildren, relatives, and friends.