Jimmy Carl Barnett was born July 16, 1940 in Wilburton, Oklahoma. He was the son of William Barnett and Marie Davenport Barnett. He grew up in Oakland, California. In 1957, the family moved to Sallisaw and fell in love with the area. He felt blessed to live in the beautiful community of Brushy where he gracefully raised his children, worked, fished, hunted, rode his horses and visited with his friends and family members.
In 1958 he proudly joined the United States Army where he traveled all over the United States and Canada. His time in the military served him well and taught him great discipline. His respect for the military was great. He was a loyal Republican and a loyal patriot to the U.S.A.
In January of 1961, Jim married the love of his life Sharon Long. In 2015 they celebrated their 54th year of marriage. They were blessed with two daughters: Deanna and Lisa.
Jim had many things to be proud of but often said his best accomplishment were the two daughters he raised and because they had blessed him with four grandchildren: Holli, Heather, Justin, and Sean.
The third generation of blessings included six great grandchildren: Asher, Dimitri, Owen, Sebastian, Dax, and Anna.
Jim also loved his sisters and brothers. Sadly, two of them, Charlotte and Willie passed before him. Gladly, two of them, Velda and Laurie continue to celebrate his life achievements. He loved all of his nieces and nephews.
Equally Jim loved his brothers and sisters in marriage. What stories we could tell of the exploits of Jim, Gary, and Larry. These were good times! His little sister Elizabeth held a special place in his heart.
He was well known in the community as a welder and metal fabricator. This allowed Jim to meet many friends. He was talented and specialized in Model A’s. To all his buddies he was “proud” to know you. He says “keep on drivin”.
Jim left this world on October 17th, 2015 at Mercy Hospital in Fort Smith, Arkansas after a seven year battle with cancer. He was a warrior!!! He fought this war with dignity and grace and won many battles. Do not mourn him! Jim loved Jesus Christ! One of his favorite songs was “Victory in Jesus, my Savior Forever”. Although he is sorely missed, he is now resting in the loving arms of his Savior…Jesus Christ.
In dedication of his memory…the word of God spoke the truth to him and he leaned on its promise. One of his favorite scriptures that he stood on as he prepared to meet his heavenly Father was “I HAVE MADE YOU and I WILL CARRY YOU; I WILL SUSTAIN YOU AND I WILL RESCUE YOU” (Isaiah 46:4. Drive on Jim, drive on daddy, drive on grandpa, drive on brother…we’ll meet you on the highways of heaven!
Graveside service will be Thursday, October 22, 2015 at 2 pm at Brushy Cemetery. Viewing will be Wednesday 1 - 8 pm at the funeral home.
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