Barbara Jean (Williams) Barnett was born September 28, 1938, to William Thomas Williams and Mary Juanita (Plaster) Williams in Harlingen, TX. She went to heaven to be with her Lord and Savior on October 7, 2023, at the age of 85 years and 9 days at her home in Viola, AR with her family by her side. Barbara married the love of her life Billy Albert Barnett on December 30, 1957, in Seguin, TX. They were married for 65 years 9 months and 7 days.
Barbara met Bill at the age of 13 when she shot him with a water gun at the Mission Drive-in Theater, San Antonio, TX. She said she knew at that moment that she loved him, and they were destined to be together. Barbara was saved at the age of 19, Bill then began going with her to church. He was saved shortly after, and this began their lifelong service to spreading the gospel. Barbara always followed Bill wherever the Lord led him, no matter what the circumstances. She lived a life of service bringing countless people to Christ. From this union 7 children were born.
Barbara leaves behind her husband Bill, 5 daughters and 2 sons, Bilynda Jean Garrett (Kurt) Salem, AR, Gina Beth Keller (Ray) Rogers, AR, Andrea Jane Coggins (Rodney) Gravette AR, Billy Albert Barnett Jr (Tracy) Winslow, AR, William Travis Barnett (Dena) Glencoe, AR, Alice Ann Barnett, Viola, AR, Juanita Jo Hayes (Roger) Rolla, MO. 21 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, two brothers, Alan Baker, Mark Baker, Azel, TX, and countless other family and friends.
She was preceeded in death by her mother, father, stepfather Al Baker, stepmother Vera Williams, sister Lyla Hardy, granddaughter Eveleen Nicole Barnett, and grandson Lane Jess Garrett.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 14, 2023, at the Living Word Tabernacle, 5707 Hwy 62 East, Salem, AR at 12:00 pm. All are invited to attend and share memories of Barbara. Memorials may be given to Operation Smile or Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home in Salem, Arkansas.
