Joe Ellis Barnett, 86, was born April 19, 1937, in Ottawa County Oklahoma to Orvel and Lona Barnett. He passed from this life to his eternal Heavenly home April 27, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family. Joe had two brothers, Jack and Don, who preceded him in death. He married the love of his life, Darlene Pickering December 22, 1956, in Miami, Oklahoma. Most of their 67 years of marriage was spent living in the Seneca, Missouri area, where they raised their two children, Sterling and Cindy.

Joe's family includes Darlene of the home; daughter Cindy Barnett, son and daughter-in-law Sterling and Paula Barnett, their daughter Dr. Jami Barnett (who preceded her grandpa in death), his bonus son Michael Foley, all of Seneca; granddaughter Rachel Weaver, and two great-granddaughters, Madelyn and Emma Weaver, of Arkansas.

Joe served proudly his country in the Army of the United States. He was an antique tractor and monitor motor enthusiast and was a member of the National Association of Antique and Classic Tractor, branch #123. He worked for Joplin Water Works from 1967 until his retirement in 1999 and was a lifetime member of the NRA. Joe attended Warren's Branch Baptist Church for over 50 years where he served as the superintendent.

Joe enjoyed going to auctions with Darlene where they searched high and low for hidden treasures (which they often found). Not everyone saw the prankster side of Joe but his family knew it well. His sense of humor was one of the most special things about him and the twinkle in his eye and his grin when he was kidding someone was infectious. For the select few who know the whole story, (and you know who you are), a quote from the man himself..."It'll Ride!"

Joe was a good friend and loved by most everyone he came in contact with. His biggest love and commitment was to his family. Joe instilled hard work, honesty, dedication and perseverance in each of them. He will be dearly missed everyday but the qualities he instilled and the memories he left anyone who knew him will live on.

He will be forever loved and missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

-Until we meet again.

The body has been taken for cremation under the personal direction of Campbell-Biddlecome Funeral Home, Seneca, Missouri. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service was held at 10:00 am, Monday, May 2, 2023, at the Warren's Branch Baptist Church with Wendal Brown officiating.