Robert Steven “Steve” Barns loved Christ and loved people. He had a gift for making others feel welcome, and his kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. His life was marked by unwavering faith, genuine compassion, and a joyful spirit.

Steve was a devoted husband to his wife, Kathryn. Their marriage was marked by a shared love for Christ, a deep commitment to one another, and a lifelong desire to serve others. Family was one of Steve’s greatest joys. He cherished his children and grandchildren and loved being silly with them. He never outgrew his sense of humor and always found ways to make others laugh. His family will treasure the time they shared with him and will carry on his sense of joy, adventure, and love for life.

As a marriage and family counselor, Steve spent many years listening with patience and compassion and helping people through some of the hardest seasons of their lives. He was a friend to everyone, especially those who often found themselves on the outskirts or felt overlooked. Whether family, friend, neighbor, client, or someone he had just met, he freely shared his friendship, compassion, and genuine interest in others. No one was beyond his kindness.

Steve’s faith in Christ shaped every area of his life. He was a faithful church member and volunteer who served willingly wherever there was a need. He always had a Bible verse to share, offering encouragement and wisdom from God’s Word. For many years, he faithfully led a weekly gathering of men for prayer, fellowship, and the study of Scripture. His study of the Bible, commitment to the local church, and friendships centered around Christ strengthened his faith. Steve wanted his life to reflect the love of Jesus each day.

He also found joy in the simple gifts of God’s creation and sharing his passions with others. Steve loved feeding the birds in his backyard, taking his dogs on walks, and spending time outdoors. For the last several years, he dedicated many volunteer hours serving at Lake Ray Roberts. He believed in the importance of slowing down, enjoying nature, and taking time to observe the beauty of God’s creation. Steve also freely shared his time with others by coaching tennis, fishing, and watching his grandchildren play sports.

Steve will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, faithful friend, and follower of Christ. Family and friends will remember his love for God’s Word, his kindness to everyone he met, his appreciation for God’s creation, and the way he made people feel welcome.

Steve was born in Denton, Texas, on September 7, 1956, to Joseph E. Barns Sr. and W. Jean Massey Barns. He was the fourth of five children. Steve attended Denton schools and graduated from Denton High School in 1975. He then went on to Baylor University, where he met his future wife and the love of his life, Kathryn. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Religion, he continued his education at North Texas State University, now the University of North Texas, where he earned a Master of Education in Counseling. For more than thirty years, he worked as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.

Steve was 69 years old when he went to be with the Lord on July 19, 2026, after a battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother and dear friend, Joseph E. Barns Jr.; and his beloved daughter, Diana Barns.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Kathryn Barns; his daughter, Resa Curbo and husband Tyler; his sons, Will Barns and fiancé Crystal McAdams, and Greg Barns and girlfriend Alanna Thiede; his cherished grandchildren, Ava, Jaelyn, Levi, and Lucas Barns, and Mitchell, Cooper, and Oliver Curbo; his sisters, Rene Ochs and husband Dick, Resa Glenn and husband Dell, and Rebecca Bird and husband Derek; and a large extended family.

Just weeks before Steve’s passing, the family experienced the heartbreaking loss of Diana. Though their grief is deep, they rest in the same hope that sustained him throughout his life: “He who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23

A visitation will be held Wednesday, July 22, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at DeBerry Funeral Home, 2025 West University Drive in Denton. The funeral service will be held Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at First Denton, 1100 Malone Street. A graveside service will follow at Old Alton Cemetery, 5724 Teasley Lane in Denton.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Steve’s honor to Hope Ignited, whose mission of sharing the hope of Christ through healthcare and ministry reflected Steve’s heart for serving others. Donations may be made at https://www.hopeignited.org/donate.