James Phillip Barnett

James Phillip Barnett, age 86, passed away on Sunday, August 3, 2025, following a severe stroke.

He was preceded in death by his father, James William Barnett; his mother, Mary Elizabeth Mullen Barnett; his brothers, Daniel F. Barnett (Paige) and William E. Barnett (Marianne); and his grandson, James William Barnett.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Brigitte Mina Stroh Barnett; his brother, Jesse L. Barnett (Peggy); his son, James Gary Barnett; his granddaughter, Jessica Marie Barnett Doles (Joshua C. Doles); and his great-grandchildren, Nathan Leith and Ava-Mae Leanna Doles.

James Phillip Barnett, better known as Jim or Grandpa, was born on June 24, 1939. He lived a full, rewarding, and truly adventurous life. After growing up, graduating high school, and attending some college, Jim joined the Army. He had a fulfilling career as a paratrooper and achieved many accomplishments during his military service, of which he was very proud. Most of all, he was proud of finding his future wife while stationed in Germany. They married on December 19, 1962.

He and Brigitte shared 63 wonderful years together, living their best lives despite life’s challenges. From starting their life together in Germany, moving to America, raising a family, running a prize-winning angelfish hatchery, selling tools, traveling often, sharing pearls of wisdom wherever they went, enjoying countless family camping trips, and scuba diving adventures—they truly lived an exciting life.

However, you came to know him, Jim had a remarkable way of making everyone feel loved. There wasn’t a single person in his life who didn’t feel his warmth and kindness. He loved the Lord, and he made sure I did too. He always had a lesson to teach, advice to give, a funny joke to share, or something positive to say.

In a sense, he was everyone’s grandpa, dad, brother, or friend. He had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel accepted and cared for. He was my grandpa—but I believe he was my hero, and a hero to many others as well.

If he had the chance, he would tell us all that he loves us—“A bushel and a peck, and a hug around the neck.”

Graveside service will be Thursday, August 7, 2025 at Arnolds Chapel Cemetery at 11:00 AM. Brother Jim Shannon officiating.

Patterson Forest Grove Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Barnett family during their time of bereavement. Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be shared at www.pattersonfuneralhomes.com.

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