Obituary of Lafayette George "Pepe" Barnett Jr.

Tracy City, Tennessee – Mr. Lafayette George Barnett, Jr., 75, a resident of Portsmouth, Virginia passed away Tuesday October 30, 2018 at a Norfolk, Virginia Hospital.  He was born in Tampa, Florida on June 22, 1943 to Lafayette G. Barnett Sr, and Clara Griffin Barnett who preceded him in death.

 He is survived by his wife Mary Lockhart Barnett, son Mathew (Michelle) Barnett of Beaverton, Oregon, and daughter Sarah Barnett of Bend, Oregon; brothers, Jeffery Hughes and Forrest (Mimi) Hughes of Fayetteville, Tennessee.

His nieces and nephews knew him as “Pepe”, a nickname from his time in the Navy, where he served on the maiden voyage of the USS Enterprise.

George was well-known for his love of life and thirst for knowledge. He was a constant student of life by seeking knowledge and understanding of the world. He enjoyed sharing what he had learned with both his friends and family. From this, his friends enjoyed his endearing sense of humor and gift of gab.  He also loved gardening, camping, backpacking, and sailing. He instilled in his children his love of adventure, travel, and willingness to meet challenges head on. 

Funeral Services will be held 2:00 PM Tuesday in the Foster and Lay Chapel with Minister Andy Lockhart officiating with burial to follow in the Orange Hill Cemetery with Military Honors provided by the US Navy. Visitation: 5:00 PM – 8 :00 PM Monday at Cumberland Funeral Home, Tracy City, Tennessee. www.cumberlandfuneralhome.net 

In lieu of flowers, you may send contributions to the Orange Hill Memorial in care of Sharon Tuner, 2990 Browns Hollow Rd, Tracy City, TN 37387.