Gabriel “Gabe” William Barnhart, age 34, passed away on July 13, 2025, at his home in Conway, Arkansas surrounded by his wife and family. For the past 6 months, Gabe faced cancer with incredible courage, determination, and unwavering hope.

Gabe was born in Little Rock, Arkansas on December 22, 1990, to Doug Barnhart and Sherry (Adams) Barnhart. He graduated from Cabot High School in 2009 before attending Arkansas Tech University in Russellville where he received his Bachelor of Science in Education. On July 23, 2016, he was united in marriage to Jenna (Spikes) Barnhart. Together, they had their children and built a loving, supportive community of family and friends in Conway and across Arkansas.

Gabe had a passion for learning and helping those close to him, so it was no surprise when he chose teaching as a career. As an educator, Gabe taught math, science, and English to elementary, middle school and junior high students. He encouraged everyone to see the best in themselves and others. With a heart for service, Gabe attended seminary following college and served in various ministering roles. Gabe never turned down a chance to dive into a new hobby especially if it meant helping or spending more time with those he loved. He was always willing to help anyone with his wide range of knowledge and talents.

Gabe was a loving husband, father, brother, son, and friend who was happiest when spending time riding his bike on different trails, finding the best way to brew his coffee, sharing a meal with loved ones, telling hilarious stories with his uncanny wit, playing board and card games, teaching his children to love the outdoors, and discovering new restaurants and places with Jenna, the love of his life. Gabe would often make deep connections with people everywhere revolving around sports. His love for all things basketball, baseball, and football allowed many friendships to blossom over the years. Those who loved him will remember his generous and compassionate heart, the way he took care to find humor in all things, and how he fiercely loved and protected his family.

Gabe was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Bill and Wilma Barnhart, his maternal grandparents Wandel “Buddy” Adams and his wife Shelby, and Clara Ziliak and her husband Donald, and his “Uncle Deedle” Darryl Adams.

He is survived by his wife Jenna Barnhart, his daughter Merritt and his son Ellis of Conway, Arkansas; his father Doug Barnhart (Karen) of Louisville, Kentucky; his mother Sherry Barnhart (Stan Hall) of Little Rock, Arkansas; his brother Caleb Barnhart (Jon Meinen) of Jersey City, New Jersey; as well as countless aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends.

Though Gabe’s time with us was far too short, his impact on the lives he touched will never be forgotten. Gabe’s love, laughter, sense of humor, and presence will be forever missed and will echo in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Gabe’s memory on Sunday, July 27 at 2pm at Brick Room Events in Conway, Arkansas. A short service to celebrate Gabe’s life will begin at 2pm and be followed from 2:30-5pm with time to visit family and friends.