James is survived by his wife of 70 years, Bebe Barnett, his daughters, Sandy Graham(Andy), Melissa Sullivan(Rod); daughter-in-law Leigh Barnett; grandchildren, Jamey Graham(Laura); Lindsay Hollingsworth (Justin); Rodney Sullivan(Lacey); and Brooks Barnett; great grandchildren, Stone and Silas Graham; Brenton, Lane, and Katelyn Hollingsworth; Parker and Patton Sullivan.
He was preceded in death by his parents Lorene and Fred Barnett; sister Betty Jean Hosmer; son Jim Barnett and grandson Barry Graham.
James grew up in Birmingham, Alabama and after graduating from Woodlawn High School he joined the United State Air Force. He was a Staff Sergeant with the U. S. Air Force 9th Air Force 160 Fighter Squadron during the Korean Conflict. In 1952, Bebe and James moved to Tuscaloosa and in 1971, they made Northport their permanent home. While living in Northport he became significantly involved in many civic, educational, political and religious organizations. He served two terms on the Northport City Council and 29years on the Tuscaloosa County Board of Education. He was a member of Northport Baptist Church and was elected Tuscaloosa County Baptist, “Man of the Year.” He was also selected as Northport’s Citizen of the Year. Most recently the newly constructed Northport Intermediate School Campus was named in his honor as a tribute to his dedication and years of service on the Tuscaloosa County Board of Education. James was currently employed at Smart Bank in Northport as Business Development Officer/Vice President. While James loved his involvement in the community, he mostly loved his family, his friends and his Auburn Tigers.
Pallbearers will be Andy Graham, Rod Sullivan, Jamey Graham, Rodney Sullivan, Justin Hollingsworth, Brooks Barnett and Bob Kimbrell.
Honorary Pallbearers will be employees of Smart Bank, The Tuscaloosa County Board of Education, Family Medical Practice of Tuscaloosa, Bryan King, MD, Tuscaloosa Orthopedics.
The family wishes to thank the incredible caregivers Emma Watson, Emma McCall and Terri Terry.
Graveside Services will be held on Tuesday, January 11, 2022 at 11:00am at Williamson Cemetery in Northport Alabama with Brother John Jenkins officiating.
The family asks that due to COVID you consider wearing a mask.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the James E. Barnett Memorial Scholarship Fund.
