ELLSINORE, Mo. - Willard Eugene Barnett, son of the late John and Elizabeth Stella (Hedge) Barnett was born January 15, 1929 and departed this life on September 11, 2017 at Saint Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau, Mo. He had attained the age of eighty-eight years, seven months and twenty-seven days
Willard had resided in Grandin, Mo., since 1963. He was of the Baptist faith. Willard proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict. He enjoyed stock car racing, working outside, reading westerns, and working cross word puzzles. He was an easygoing, very caring person who loved his wife of 64 years, and his family. He had a good sense of humor and loved to joke and visit with family.
On September 13, 1953, he was united in marriage in Hernando, Miss. to Mary Jo (Kimes) of Portageville, Mo.
Survivors include his wife, Mary Jo, seven children, Karen Johnston (Melvin) of Portageville, Mo.; Gene Barnett (Maria) of Cullman, Ala.; John (Reba) Barnett of Sikeston, Mo.; Mary (Dave) Taylor of Labadie, Mo.; Susie (Mike) White of Grandin, Mo.; Robert (Connie) Barnett of Benton, Mo.; and Linda (Bill) Scott of Poplar Bluff, Mo.; thirteen grandchildren, Michael Johnston, Brian Johnston, Christine Wiggins, Brian Barnett, Jacob Taylor, Josh White, Jennifer Barnett, Cheryl Barnett, Delain Scott, Stacy Holper, Marca Tibbs, Brooke Cross, and Mary Hannah Angotti; twenty-one great grandchildren and many relatives and friends who mourn his passing.
In addition, to his parents Willard was preceded in death by his brother, Herschel Barnett, his sister, Colleen Zachary, and one daughter, Beth Cross.
Visitation began for the public at noon, Wednesday September 13 at the McSpadden Funeral Home in Ellsinore, with the funeral services following at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Rev. William McDowell officiated. Burial: Walton Chapel Cemetery in Carter County, Missouri.
Online condolences: www.mcspaddenfh.com
Paid