Former Neiman Marcus executive Gerald Alan Barnes dies

By

Jennifer Braun

Published
Nov 1, 2021

Gerald Alan Barnes, a veteran of Neiman Marcus who served in various top positions with the team for 35 years, died Tuesday at his home in Dallas, following a battle with lung cancer. 

Barnes first joined Neiman Marcus in 1983. He held numerous positions and climbed the ranks, until being named president and chief executive officer of Neiman Marcus Direct in 2009, where he was responsible for the e-commerce and catalogue businesses. 

He was later promoted to executive vice president of merchandising over all Neiman Marcus stores and e-commerce. He held that position until he retired in 2018. 

“We are extremely saddened by the passing of Gerald Alan Barnes,” Neiman Marcus said in a statement on LinkedIn. 

“Gerald was beloved by many and provided great leadership to our organization during many pivotal moments. He made time to get to know the members of his team at all levels and served as a great mentor for all who worked with him. Gerald was an icon in the fashion industry and greatly respected by his peers. We extend our deepest condolences to Gerald’s wife, children, family, friends, and loved ones.”

Barnes is survived by his wife, Debra; his daughters Sophie and Lily, and his sisters Barbara Saporito and Margaret Anne Hilliard.