Howard Theodore Barnett

Howard Theodore Barnett, age 80 years, died at his New Orleans residence on Sunday, January 14, 2007. Private memorial services were held at the family residence. Tharp-Sontheimer-Tharp of Metairie in charge of arrangements. Information: (504) 835-2341.

Howard Theodore Barnett was born in New Orleans, La. on October 25, 1926. He and his family later moved to Jackson where he attended Central High School. He attended the University of Miss. for one year before serving his country in the Army during World War II. He returned to New Orleans and completed his education at Tulane University. He then moved to Meridian where he fell in love with and married Ann Hall of Bonita, Miss. He became a successful businessman who was actively involved in civic programs, such as tourism, the founding committee to revive the Grand Opera House, and the establishment of an arts festival, later known as Art in the Park. Mr. Barnett was equally passionate and dedicated to issues involving poverty, illiteracy, and race relations. He generously established the All-American Scholarship Program at Meridian Community College and remained personally involved the remainder of his life.

The early 1960's witnessed the advent of cable television. Mr. Barnett acquired the franchise for Meridian and other towns in Miss. He became actively involved nationally and his systems received national attention for his vision and sales within the cable community.

He and his wife moved to New Orleans in the late 1970's to pursue his interests in cable television. Mr. Barnett initially brought Cox Cable television to Jefferson Parish. He subsequently acquired the Cox franchise for Orleans Parish and developed the entire cable system for the City of New Orleans. Mr. Barnett served on numerous professional and civic boards. He was an active member of the NCTA Cable board in Washington, D.C. He was involved both locally and nationally in the development of cable television throughout the United States.

Mr. Barnett retired from active business life in 1985 to pursue his lifelong interest in art. He and his wife opened the Hall-Barnett Gallery in New Orleans. Mr. Barnet was both an avid collector and patron of the arts; he had a passion for discovering and inspiring young, emerging artists at his gallery and through the Tulane University Art Department. After the closing of his gallery, Mr. Barnett began making pottery, where for the next six years, he worked as an accomplished potter at Tulane.

Mr. Barnett loved sports of all types, especially tennis. He could often be found at the New Orleans Tennis Club. Mr. Barnett will always be remembered as an entrepreneur, an intellectual, and a friend of the underdog.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Ann Hall Barnett; his three children, daughter, Kerry Barnett Parker and her husband Paul; son, Ken Hall Barnett and his wife, Cherri; and daughter, Holly Barnett. He has five grandchildren: Lee, Ben, India, Chloe and Stone.

Memorials may be made to: Barnett All-American Scholarship, Meridian Community College, Kathy Brookshire, 910 Hwy 19 North, Meridian, MS 39307.