Irvin Wayne Barnett

Irvin “Wayne” Barnett, age 75, of Dallas, Texas, hung up his Santa hat for the final time and passed peacefully on April 7, 2025. Born in Dallas on September 11, 1949, to Irvin Thomas and Betty Jo Barnett, Wayne’s life was one filled with warmth, laughter, and a sprinkle of Christmas magic all year round.

Wayne grew up in Dallas and studied at Dallas County College, but his real education came from a lifetime of loving deeply, living fully, and bringing joy to others. On February 23, 1980, he married his high school sweetheart, Janatta S. Barnett. For 42 beautiful years, they shared a life filled with laughter, adventure, and unwavering devotion.

Wayne spent many years as a manager at Dr. Pepper Co., but his true calling came with a snowy beard, a red suit, and a heart full of cheer. For the last several years, Wayne was Santa Claus—spreading joy in Temple, Texas and Clearwater, Florida, and bringing smiles to thousands of children and families. With twinkling eyes and a hearty laugh, he embodied the spirit of Christmas, not just during the holidays, but every single day.

His sleigh, lovingly known as “Santa 1,” traveled through time and across states, bridging hearts from Texas to Florida. Though he once dreamed of working with NASA, Wayne found his own kind of space magic—zipping through the hearts of all who believed. He was a proud member of the Amalgamated Order of Real Bearded Santas, and his home looked like the North Pole itself—overflowing with Santa collectibles and Christmas joy.

Wayne had a knack for handyman projects, a soft spot for children of all abilities, and a twinkle in his eye whenever someone recognized him as Santa—even in his everyday clothes. Whether he was starring in a Buff City Soap commercial or welcoming a family who drove all the way from Florida just to see their Santa again, Wayne cherished every moment he could make someone smile.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Janatta, his parents Irvin Thomas and Betty Jo, his sister Jenny Woods, brother-in-law David Woods, niece Sondra Woods, nephew Bobby Woods, and Sharon Hayden.

Wayne leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter in the hearts of his sister Vicki Black; nieces Natalie Mathew, Jill Black, and Lesley Woods; nephew Brian Woods and his wife Chrischina; great-nieces Erin Woods, Jennifer and Victoria Woods; great-nephews Brett Woods, Elliott Mathew and Austin Woods; Jonathan Hayden; and a joyful sleighful of extended family and dear friends such as his “Florida sister” Lori Burk-Howe.

Wayne Barnett may have traded in his sleigh bells for angel wings, but his legacy will jingle on in every shared laugh, every child’s wide-eyed wonder, and every moment someone believes in a little holiday magic—no matter the season.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to assist with final burial expenses. Any contribution, no matter the size, is deeply appreciated and will help ensure Wayne is laid to rest with the same love and care he gave so freely to others throughout his life.

If you would like to help, please reach out to his sister, Vicki Black, at 214-803-5422 or his niece, Natalie Mathew, at 214-335-6861 for more information

Donations can also be made directly to Grove Hill funeral home by calling the main office at 214-388-8887. Thanks in advance for your generosity.