The Reverend Dr. John David Barnett, age 73, born March 13, 1952, in Rome and from Lindale, Georgia would like to let you know that his work on Earth is done. He received a call, a sort of offer you can’t refuse, for an appointment from which he will not be returning. This assignment comes with a huge sign-on bonus, a reunion with family and friends he has not seen in a long time. He ascended to his Heavenly home to be with his Lord on Thursday, April 3, 2025, surrounded by his family and many friends at a local hospital. Do not expect this writing, that John penned himself, to be short. In his writings, speaking engagements and preaching, John certainly did not know the word short.
John left detailed instructions for his Queen and children to celebrate his missions here, which have now been completed. Dr. Barnett was a longtime member of First Baptist Church, Lindale. He was an ordained Baptist minister serving several churches over the years.
John was born with parents John David Barnett, Sr. and Ruby Jewell Digsby Barnett. He was married to Kay Agan Barnett (whom he affectionately called his Queen) for 53 years. He had two daughters, Nicole Barnett Williams (Todd) and Rebekah Barnett Wood (Brandon). Fondly called “Dado” by his grandchildren, he had one granddaughter, Anna Barnett whom he referred to as “Princess” and three grandsons whom he called “Prince”, Nash Williams, Aaron Wood, and Johnathan Wood.
Dr. Barnett was a 1970 graduate of West Rome High School. He earned degrees in Doctor of Theology and Doctor of Philosophy in Child and Adolescent Psychology. He was a long-time teacher and coach retiring from Unity Christian School. John was the first male member of the Three Rivers Garden Club and was a member of other local, state and national garden clubs.
Other members of Dr. Barnett’s family are Kathy Agan Sanders (James); nieces, Jessica Sanders Davenport (Josh), and Jordan Sanders Williams; nephew, Jason Sanders (Michelle); several great nieces and great nephews; as well as Lucy Lou his Goldendoodle.
A celebration of Life for Dr. John will be held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 2pm in the Chapel at Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel, with his pastor, Rev. Eric Whelchel, officiating and his grandsons, Nash and Aaron delivering the eulogy. Interment will follow in Floyd Memory Gardens.
The family will receive friends at Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel, on Monday from 5 until 7pm. At other hours the family will be at the residence of Nicole & Todd Williams.
Pallbearers are asked to assemble at Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel, on Tuesday at 1:30pm and include Active: Todd Williams, Brandon Wood, Nash Williams, Aaron Wood, Jason Sanders, James Sanders, Kobie Drew, and Kevante Drew. Honorary: Johnathan Wood, Case Caldwell, Gavin Williams, Hudson Sanders, Josh Davenport, the Alpha & Omega Sunday School Class at First Baptist Church, Lindale, and local, state, and national garden club members.
Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel, is honored to serve the family of the Reverend Dr. John David Barnett.
