Stephen Lee Barnes

With loving hearts, we share that Stephen Lee Barnes, of Nampa, Idaho, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was 70 years old. He is survived by his wife, Roberta; his son, Joshua (Rebecca) Barnes; his daughter, Alisha (Ryan) Taylor; and his six grandchildren.

Steve was born on October 24, 1955, in Ontario, Oregon, to Leland Barnes and Margaret Baker. A beloved son, he spent his childhood and youth growing up in Nampa, Idaho. He was always close to his younger sisters: Susan, Beth, Bonnie, and Carol. A natural athlete, Steve participated in football and basketball throughout his school years. He was proud to be a Nampa bulldog where he served as vice-president of his senior class and made many lifelong friends.

Steve was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Because of his deep love for the Lord and testimony of the gospel, he served in the England Leeds Mission. This experience was a great blessing in his life, and he often shared fond stories of the people he came to love there.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in business and later an MBA. Throughout his career, he held several positions, most notably at Space Data and Honeywell. In his later years, his work reflected his deep compassion for others as he helped young adults with special needs.

Becoming a father was Steve’s greatest joy. He raised his family in Chandler, Arizona, during years that were often challenging as a single dad. He loved to coach Josh’s sports teams and attend games or performances watching Josh play baseball or Alisha play the clarinet with the marching band. He was their biggest fan. Through faith, perseverance, and love, he and his children built a strong, close family. He taught his children the importance of faith and having a personal testimony of Jesus Christ. He was deeply proud that both Josh and Alisha later served missions and built happy families. His grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he cherished every moment he got to spend with them.

Steve and Roberta were married nearly 30 years and lived in Arizona most of that time. When they moved back to Nampa, Steve reconnected with old friends, made new ones, and was able to be a loving and supportive son during his father’s final years.

Steve had a huge heart and found joy in the simple things of life. He loved people, laughing and joking, playing golf, dancing, and attending the temple.

After a long battle with complications from diabetes, we know the Lord welcomed home a faithful and valiant son. Steve will be greatly missed by his family who took comfort in this scripture: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”— 2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV)

Memorial services will be held on January 31, 2026, at 11 a.m. with a viewing prior to the services from 10 - 10:45 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3904 E Greenhurst Road, Nampa.

Interment will be held at a later date.