Rev. Robert L. Barnes II received a doctoral degree of ministry from the United Theological Seminary on Dec. 19, 2003 in Dayton, Ohio.

He was accompanied by family members, members of his congregation at the Canaan Baptist Church, which is located at 2064 Nansemond Parkway, Suffolk.

He is married to Gloria J. Barnes and the father of Shelton, Altovise and Nathaniel.