FERRUM, Va. -- Ferrum College mourns the loss of Carson Barnes, who passed away on September 18, 2025. Barnes served as Head Football Coach at Ferrum for two seasons, from 1957 to 1958. He was 95 years old at the time of his passing.

Barnes coached four Ferrum JUCO All-Americans, and each went on to earn full scholarships at four-year institutions. During his time at Ferrum, Barnes also served as History Professor, Assistant to the Dean, and Assistant Baseball Coach.

After leaving Ferrum, Barnes went on to work at William & Mary as Administrator of Student Affairs and Public Services, Dean of Men and Den of Students. He also served as an adjunct consultant with the Department of Defense Intelligence. At William & Mary, Barnes was a member of the Athletic Committee that hired Marv Levy and then Lou Holtz as head football coaches.

Barnes earned his Bachelor's degree from Randolph-Macon College in 1952, his Master's degree from University of Virginia in 1959, and his Juris Doctor Degree from William & Mary Law School in 1976. He was inducted into Ferrum's Sports Hall of Fame in 2010. 

Barnes is survived by his wife, Polly Tucker White Barnes, daughters, Jane Barnes Gregorits and Elaine Barnes Watkins of Williamsburg, Virginia, along with a number of nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Odelle B. Morgan. No public service will be held. 

Carson Barnes, Nov. 14, 1930 - Sept. 18, 2025