Gene Barnett

Vernon Gene Barnett, 79, of Jonesboro passed from this life on Saturday, July 24, 2021 at NEA Baptist Hospital. Gene was born to the late Vern and Bera Barnett on July 18, 1942 in Jonesboro. He lived his early childhood in Bay, until he was about 6 or 7. He then moved to Searcy until his 10th grade year in High School. Gene was a Jonesboro High School graduate of 1961 and has resided in Jonesboro ever since. While in school, he worked for the family business, Barnett Construction. After this, he started working for the City of Jonesboro as the City Street Superintendent. He worked here until his retirement in 2004. Gene was a very well known singer, bass player and was an avid lover of music. Gene was also of the Baptist belief. He was such a food critic and was always thinking about his next meal. Gene was known by many and he never met a stranger.

In addition to his parents, Gene is preceded in death by his two grandchildren, Asher Dacus and Andrew Powell; and two brothers, Frank Barnett and Charles Barnett.

Gene is survived by his wife, Kay Barnett of 48 years, of the home; daughter Whitney (Chris) Dacus of Jonesboro; three sons, Shannon Barnett, Scott Powell, and Chad (Kelli) Powell, all of Jonesboro; brother, Fred (Gayle) Barnett of Jonesboro; two sisters, Linda Robinson of Jonesboro and Ann Merrell of Batesville; 7 grandchildren, Gunner (Kamerin) Dacus, Christian Dacus, Carson Dacus, Daly Dacus, Tyler Powell, Logan Powell, and Ryan Powell; 4 great grandchildren, Emmy Powell, Ava Ross, Clara Powell, and Kami Powell;  and many nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.

Pallbearers: Brent Long, Roger Williams, Donnie Stacy, Jason Albert, Joe Mansfield, Mark Needham
Honorary Pallbearers: Bobby McPherson, John Brandon, Eddy Ross, and Grady McGwier

Visitation will be from 9:30-11:30 a.m., Friday, July 30, 2021 at Emerson Funeral Home. The family will have a private graveside service and burial.

For lasting memorials family asks to please consider donations to:
LeBonheur Children's Hospital Foundation - 850 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38105.