Tony Barnes had been a resident of Panama City since 1941 and was the owner and operator of Barnes Dry Cleaners for more than 50 years. He provided employment opportunities to many Panama City residents, and his business expertise extended to Tyndall Air Force Base and Fort Walton Beach. He was involved in many civic, community, and political activities, including running for City Commissioner. His contributions extended beyond the cleaners, and he was a major contributor and a pillar to the community and his family.