James "Pete" Barnett

James “Pete” Barnett, 92, of Sweetwater went to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 19, 2023. He recently accepted Jesus as his Savior. Pete was born February 9, 1931 to the late Murrell Barnett and Willie Barnett Wiseman.

Pete was a dozer operator for Wright Brothers Construction for over 20 years. He truly loved his profession, co-workers, and employer. He spoke fondly of Wright Brothers as well as Robert and James Wright up until his death. After retirement, you could find him watching and observing any dirt that was being pushed, dug or excavated at any new construction site around Sweetwater. Aside from his love of construction, he was also a kind and giving person, always helping his neighbors. Most recently, he enjoyed sitting in his old truck people watching in front of Ingles or Royal King.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Ruby Barnett Patty; brothers, Clarence “Cotton” Wiseman, Ernest Wiseman, Donnie Wiseman, Lloyd Wiseman, and Dewey “Tommy” Wiseman.

He is survived by his loving daughter, Amy Barnett Padgett (Mark Maynard); grandson, Cory Kight; sister, Christine Runyon (Howard); sister-in-laws, Drusella Barnett, Nancy Wiseman, and Barbara Wiseman Smith; many nieces and nephews; as well as special friends, Gary and Claretta Crosby and Megan “Sunshine” Ladd.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Companion Funeral Home of Athens with Pastor Bill Wilson officiating. The family will be receiving friends from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. prior to the service with burial to follow at Westview Cemetery in Sweetwater, Tennessee.

You are invited to share a personal memory of Pete or your condolences with his family at his online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Athens and the Cody family are honored to assist the family with these arrangements.