Thomas Windell Barnard

Thomas Windell Barnard, 87, of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026. Born and raised in Texas, Thomas lived a life defined by service, devotion, and deep love for his family.

Thomas proudly served 22 years in the United States Navy, retiring as a Chief Petty Officer. His dedication to his country was matched only by his devotion to his beloved wife, Thelma Susan Parkes Barnard, whom he married in 1959. Their love story was one he cherished and retold often—always with a smile, and often until she blushed.

He was a loving father to Richard (Norma) Barnard, Ronald (Brenda)Barnard, Robert (Desirea)Barnard, and Sandra (MikeGuerrero)Barnard, and a proud grandfather and great‑grandfather. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, great‑grandchildren, his sisters Patsy Dial and Nell Farmer as well as sister in law Vicky Nelson.

Thomas was preceded in death by his loving wife Thelma “Sue” Barnard, his parents Willie B. Barnard and Nancy Jane Barnard, his siblings Doyle, Debra Sue, and Joyce, and his daughter‑in‑law Brenda K. Barnard.

He lived his life as a Hero, Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Great‑Grandfather. Thomas valued family above all else. He worked tirelessly to provide for them, supported every milestone, and filled their lives with stories, laughter, and unwavering love. He enjoyed coaching little league baseball, fishing along the Texas coast, tending to his garden, and caring for the many dogs who were part of his life through the years. A lifelong UT Longhorn fan, he also took great pride in cheering on his Flour Bluff Hornet football team.

A special thank you to the care team at Enhabit Hospice and Home Health for their excellent care and comfort. Thank you to Julie Carlisle Enhabit H/H for loving and caring for mom and dad for many years. Thank you to Claira Diaz Enhabit Hospice Aide for making dad smile when it hurt the most.

Celebration of LifeA service to honor Thomas’s life will be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 6:30 PM at Sawyer‑George Funeral Home.A Graveide service will follow on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Coastal Bend Veterans Cemetery.All who knew and loved him are warmly welcomed to attend.