Wilson Hughdon Barnette

Mr. Wilson Hughdon "Don" Barnette, age 80, of Rome, passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at his residence surrounded by his family.

Don was born in Rome, Georgia on October 31, 1945, son of the late Paul Wilson Barnette and the late Hannie Lee Storey Tate. He was also preceded in death by his stepfather, Hollis Tate, and his firstborn child, Jeffrey Hughdon Barnette. Don was a graduate of Coosa High School and worked for several years at ITT Lester.

Don raised his family in church. He and JoAnn were part of the ASL Deaf ministry at New Bethel Baptist Church. He was a faithful member of Rome Baptist Tabernacle and most recently he worshipped at Hollywood Baptist Church where their Sunday School was the highlight of their week. Don loved music, Gospel music, Country Music, and Rock music. He loved to get together with friends and band members for "Jam" sessions. He also loved the outdoors and had a love of bird dogs. He enjoyed camping and survival shows. Don loved tinkering on cars and loved sports. He was a faithful fan of Coosa, Darlington, UGA, the Atlanta Falcons, and the Atlanta Braves.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, JoAnn Nichols Barnette; his son, David Jason Barnette (Madison, Noah, Julia, Erin, Cliff, and Danni); daughter, Donna Barnette Sentell (Robert Ethan, and Claire); daughter, April Barnette Thames (Matt, Rob, Zachary, and Keris); Jeffrey's children (Ezra & Belle); sister, Judi Tate Murphine (Bobby, Johnny, Tim, and Steven); brother, Jerry "JayBird" Barnette (Susan, Stephanie, Misti, and Kristopher); and their families.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 11am in the Chapel at Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel, with Pastor David Harper officiating. Interment will follow in Oaknoll Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends at Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel, on Wednesday from 10am until the service time.

Pallbearers are asked to assemble at Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel, on Wednesday at 10:30am and include Robert Sentell, Ethan Sentell, Noah Barnette, Ezra Barnette, Matthew Thames, Rob Kennington, and Zach Kennington.

Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel, is honored to serve the family of Mr. Wilson Hughdon "Don" Barnette.