01/08/2026
The family of George Barnett is celebrating the life of a man who truly understood how to live. Known for his warmth and a wit that could brighten any room, George passed away on January 1, 2026. He was 82 years old and died at his home in Henderson, Texas, surrounded by his beloved family.
Visitation is at 11am and a homegoing celebration will be held at 1pm on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Friendship Church, 23049 CR 2183, Tatum, Texas.
Born on March 18, 1943, in Fordyce, Arkansas, to Albert Barnett and Lillie Mae Barnett (Mitchell), George dedicated his life to his family. While attending East Liberty High School in Shelbyville, Texas, he met his future wife. He and the late Angie Mae Barnett were married on July 31, 1969, and together they raised four children. George and Angie were both baptized in Christ when they were members of Harris Chapel Church of Christ. He was a believer and lived his life knowing that God was his sole provider and protector.
George "never met a stranger." He was a "fun-loving soul" who treated everyone like an old friend. He was the heart of every gathering, known for his humorous spirit and a witty demeanor that kept his family laughing until the very end. He loved family and family gatherings. To know George was to have a true friend and a loyal advocate.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Angie Mae; his parents; sisters, Ethel Smith and Jane Helen Washington; and brothers, Charles Barnett, Andy Barnett, and Mike Sparks.
He is survived by:
Children:
Vickie Cooper (Tommy) of Houston
Shermetra Christopher (Dennis) of Henderson
LeFrederick Rashad Barnett of Dallas
Reginald Andrae Barnett of Houston
His legacy lives on through his seven grandchildren—Brandon, Bernard, Brock, Keith, Talisha, Savannah, and DJ—and his nine great-grandchildren.
Siblings:
Sisters:
Linda Alford of Portland Oregon
Merlene Carter (Jamie) of Monroe, LA
Pauline Hewitt (Billy) of Shelbyville
Faye Allen (Kenneth) of Center
Brothers:
Rasheed El-Amin (Nawal) of Houston
Arthur Barnett (Celine) of Houston
Mickey Sparks of Houston
Bobby Sparks (Adrenne) of Center
Sisters-in-law: Cleola Ray of Henderson, Tx; and Alma Jones of Mansfield, La
Brothers-in-law:
MZ Cartwright (Mary) of Dallas
Joe Sparks of California
Leroy Ayers (Avis) of Longview, Tx
Special nephew, Darnell Ray (Angela)
Special friends:
Gene Raster of Tyler, Tx;
Charles and Juanita Bradford of Henderson, Tx
He also leaves behind a large, loving family of nieces, nephews, a host of cousins and dear friends who will miss his charming wit, fun-loving attitude and easy spirit.
"A special thank you to Dennis Christopher—George’s son-in-law and dear friend—for the unwavering 'shepherd care' and devotion he showed our father."
Services are under the direction of Harmon and Harmon Funeral Associates, 208 E. Main St., Ore City, Texas 75683. For online condolences, visit www.harmonandharmonfa.com.
