The son of the late C. L. ”Red” and Abbie Mae Barnett, of Jasper, Tenn., Paul grew up on the family’s farm with seven siblings. He was a graduate of Marion County High School and Middle Tennessee State University.
A natural athlete, Paul was a gifted football player in both high school and college, and he served as a coach at several area high schools during the early 1970s. His passion for coaching and teaching influenced scores of young players. During his time as a football coach at Chattanooga Central High School, his players even gave him the nickname of “Coach Superman.”
Paul’s outgoing personality and quick wit charmed all who crossed his path, and his approachable manner brought him success in sales for many years. Always an encourager, Paul faithfully supported his friends and family through the joys and disappointments of life. Quite simply, Paul Barnett was one of the finest men that anyone could ever know. He was an avid fan of the Lady Bucs Basketball Team, coached by his daughter, and his grandsons’ activities at Boyd Buchanan School.
Paul was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Carol Spangler Barnett; three brothers, Lance, Jackie, and Kenny Barnett; and two sisters, Reba Tankersley and Kay Parkerson.
He is survived by his daughter Tracey Walker and husband Joe; son Adam Barnett; three grandsons, Brody Barnett, Hutch and Caden Walker; granddaughter Jessah Davis, all of Chattanooga; brother, C.L. Barnett and his wife Linda, of Jasper, sister Pat Osborne and husband Matt. of Houston; sister-in-law Peggy McDonald, husband Larry, and their family, all of Nashville; and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 1 to 3 pm on Sunday, March 17, at the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home.
A celebration of life will follow at 3 pm on Sunday, at the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home,
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Boyd Buchanan School Annual Fund.
Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com.
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343.
