Craig Lynn Barnwell

(Dec. 5, 1960-March 2, 2026)

Craig Lynn Barnwell, 65, of Burlington, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 2, 2026, while working at his business, CB Financial, in Emporia.

Craig was born on Dec. 5, 1960, in Des Moines, Iowa, the son of James and Beulah Faye (Thornburgh) Barnwell. He spent his childhood in Burlingame, and graduated from Cumberland County High School in Crossville, Tenn. He attended Allen Community College in Iola, and Ottawa University in Ottawa, where he played basketball. He earned his bachelor's degree from Emporia State University in 1984, the same year he married Sandra Schrant. They had two sons and later divorced.

Craig began his career as a physical education teacher, where he spent five years encouraging and mentoring young people. In 1991, he entered the insurance business with Prudential. He earned his LUTCF designation and, in 2004, began his own practice as an independent financial advisor. Before becoming a financial advisor, Craig spent 15 years as a high school basketball coach. Through coaching, he developed a deep appreciation for strategy, teamwork, perseverance, and discipline. Those same principles guided his work with clients as he helped them prepare for retirement. Just as he once trained athletes for competition, Craig spent decades guiding people through the financial challenges of retirement with confidence, wisdom, and encouragement.

Craig continued to operate CB Financial in Emporia. Emporia was more than just Craig's hometown; it was the community where he built lifelong friendships and devoted his career to helping neighbors plan for their future. His dedication to the people he served never wavered.

On Oct. 26, 2019, Craig married Patricia Anne "Patty" Walling in Emporia. They eventually settled in Burlington, where they built a life centered on family, faith, and community.

Craig was a member of West Side Baptist Church in Emporia. His faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life. He leaned on that faith for strength, guidance, and purpose, and he sought to reflect Christ's love through the way he served others, loved his family, and gave generously of his time.

Outside of work, Craig found joy and peace in the outdoors. He loved golfing, playing pickleball, fishing, and exploring the country's natural beauty. Whether playing 18 holes or casting a line, time outdoors helped keep him grounded. Craig was also an avid reader. As a former college basketball player, he often joked that in his later years, he had "joined the dark side" as a college basketball referee.

Craig and Patty shared a love for the ocean and especially enjoyed visiting beaches in the Caribbean each year. Their faith was central to their lives, and they were actively involved in their church community. As a former teacher, Craig never lost his passion for encouraging children. Recently, he and Patty hosted the Third Annual Fun Day for Foster Kids at their church, an event that reflected his generous heart and desire to make a difference.

Craig was preceded in death by his parents, James and Faye Barnwell.

He is survived by his wife, Patty; his sons, Cyle (Jodi) Barnwell, Wichita, Luke (Emily) Barnwell, Coralville, Iowa, and Ezekiel Goza-Barnwell, of the home in Burlington; his stepdaughters, Amanda Corbin, Lawrence, and Jessica (Matt) Harmon, Burlington; nine grandchildren, with one on the way, Kaleb, Ava, Lilah, Luke, Jaxon, Olivia, Quinn, Collyns, Keylynn, and baby Barnwell; his siblings, Alice Polson, Austin Barnwell, Janell Hill, Bryan Barnwell, Lonnie Lollar, and David Miller; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Craig will be remembered for his deep faith, generous spirit, love for his family, and his lifelong commitment to helping others. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Cremation is planned. A celebration of the life of Craig Barnwell will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the West Side Baptist Church in Emporia.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Ezekiel Goza-Barnwell Care and Education Fund and may be sent in care of Jones Funeral Home, P.O. Box 277, Burlington, KS 66839.