Robert Eugene Carnes

On September 18, 2025, Robert Eugene Carnes—devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather—entered his eternal resting place after a brief illness.

Born on May 5, 1940, in Buffalo, NY, Robert was the son of the late Oakley and Virginia Carnes. He was the beloved husband of more than 60 years to the late Linda Johnston Carnes. He was also preceded in death by his younger siblings, Lynette Beman, Ronald Carnes, and Barbara Scharett, as well as his great-grandchild, Kooper.

Robert is survived by his three cherished children: Robert Carnes, Jr. (Laurene), Debbie Lamas (Frank), and Jayson Carnes (Marcie). He was a proud grandfather to Gregory, Brianna, Spencer, David, Alyssa, Lacey, Mallory, and Miranda, and a loving great-grandfather to Rylan, Kallie, Lincoln, and Carson.

After graduating from Williamsville High School in western New York, Robert began his career as a typesetter. Shortly afterward, he married Linda and together they settled in Arkport, NY, where they raised their family and operated a successful specialty contracting business for nearly three decades. Over the years, Robert and Linda built their dream homes in Bishopville, NY, Hendersonville, NC, and Lake Keowee, SC. He was also a proud investment partner in Airvent Exteriors and Carnes & Woodard Builders in Arden, NC.

Robert’s greatest joy in life was providing for his family. He was a loyal Buffalo Bills fan and a dedicated follower of NASCAR. He and Linda shared a love of travel, exploring both abroad and across the United States in their motor home, often making trips to North Carolina to visit family before eventually settling there full-time. In 2001, they moved to Lake Keowee, SC, where they created many treasured family memories. His family and friends will always remember his warm smile, engaging personality, and the kindness he extended to everyone he met.

A man of faith, Robert was a longtime member of Bishopville Methodist Church. In later years, he worshiped at Foothills Church in Seneca, SC, and most recently at Biltmore Church in Arden, NC.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 11:00 am at Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian in Arden. The family will receive friends prior to the service at the funeral home from 10:00 to 11:00.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Four Seasons Foundation at fourseasonsfdn.org.

Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian in Arden is assisting the family. To sign the online guest register, please visit www.grocefuneralhome.com. To plant trees in Robert’s memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.