Ralph Edward Barnes III's Obituary
Ralph Edward Barnes, III left us for his heavenly home on Thursday, May 29, 2025. Ralph was born in New Orleans on June 15, 1978.
Ralph is survived by his parents, Ralph Edward Barnes, Jr. and Barbara Pessin Treuil (George). He is also survived by his sister Tiffany Barnes Ruiz, brother-in-law Alex Ruiz and his nephews Alex Ruiz IV (14), Lennon Ruiz (9) and niece Braelyn Ruiz (12).
His maternal uncle, Samuel Joseph Pessin, Jr. (Linda). His paternal aunt Gayle Barnes Somers (Gary) and cousins Eric Pessin (Kaleigh), Geneva Matthews (Eric) and Leah Stephens (Tyler) Lastly, his precious miniature dachshund, Dory.
Ralph was born and lived the majority of his life in Harvey, Louisiana. He did a brief stint in the US Air Force in San Antonio, Texas at Lackland Air Force Base. He also lived for approximately two years in Lafayette, Louisiana where he developed his own social media business. He then moved back to Harvey where he was given the opportunity to learn electrical work from his brother-in-law, Alex, who owns Ru’s Electric, LLC. He enjoyed this work and pursued it until the end. Prior to the time of his passing he was employed by the Jefferson Parish Building Permits Department as an electrical inspector.
Throughout his adult life Ralph struggled with opioid addiction. It is believed that Ralph contracted Hepatitis C in his 20’s and lived with it until it was discovered approximately three years ago through routine bloodwork. He immediately took the Hepatitis C cure and eradicated the disease. But, the 20+ years of living with Hep C took a complete toll on his liver. It was indicated at that time that his liver disease could never be treated or cured.
It was at the time of his liver diagnosis that Ralph joined AA. This organization, through it’s members, helped him become sober for the first time in twenty-four years. He was fiercely dedicated to AA and went to several meetings daily as well as frequently being a guest speaker at many treatment centers, AA meetings and functions. The last 2 1/2 years of his life were the happiest and most fulfilling because of his being a member of AA. Ralph met so many people in AA that supported him unconditionally and loved him like a brother. He truly felt for once in his life that he belonged and could give of himself. Ralph thrived in his sobriety.
To this huge group of men and women we owe thanks. He didn’t want to leave them. He fought hard to stay alive for them. His legacy will live on because of his AA affiliation.
Ralph will continuously be missed by all those who knew and loved him. He will especially be missed by his family, who completely dedicated themselves to him. They stayed with him every minute of each day until he took his last breath. Family was extremely important to Ralph. He always said he would love to be a father and husband. He adored children and enjoyed spending time with his niece and nephews.
A special thank you to the brightest ray of sunshine in his life, Brittany Hamilton Couvillion. She was a continuous emotional and spiritual support for Ralph.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Ralph may be made to a local AA chapter of your choice. Ralph also asked that everyone please consider as an organ donor.
A celebration of Ralph’s life will be held at E.J. Fielding Funeral Home, 2260 W. 21st Avenue, Covington, LA 70433 on Saturday, June 28, 2025 with a gathering beginning at 12 noon followed by sharing of stories and celebrating Ralph’s life at 2:00 PM. There will be food served. This is not a funeral or religious service. This is everyone’s chance to say goodbye to this wonderful young man. Tell a story, express yourself, make a comment. Please don’t come dressed for a funeral. Wear work casual clothing for a relaxed and happy atmosphere.
The Barnes/Treuil/Ruiz families invite you to share thoughts, fondest memories, or condolences online at E. J. Fielding Funeral Home Guest Book at www.ejfieldingfh.com.
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