Linnie Barnett

We honor and celebrate the rich life of Linnie Barnett. She was born on February 7, 1933, to Lawrence and Henrietta (Cockrell) Harrell in Brooksville, Mississippi.

Linnie was a devout Christian and a member in good standing of The North Rialto Church of Christ. At an early age, she accepted the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at Mt. Ary Baptist Church in Brooksville, Mississippi. Her faith remained a steady foundation throughout her life. 

At the age of fifteen, Linnie was united in marriage to Johnell Barnett. They lived out their vows for forty-eight years until his passing. Together, they built a large and loving family. She was the proud mother of ten children, including six sons, Johnny (Danita) of Highland, California, Walter (Loretta) of Midland, Texas, Henry (Irene) of Torrance, California, Lawrence of Long Beach, California, Matthew (Marcel) of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Larry, who preceded her in death, and four daughters, Lucille Key of  Atlanta, Georgia, Bessie (Willie) Loving, Tiny (Andre) Loftis of Rialto, California, and Jeanette (Brad) Johnson of Long Beach, California.

Linnie was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend. Her unselfish love was evident to all who knew her. She had a special gift for making each of her children feel seen, heard, and deeply loved. Her love was constant, and she gave it freely. Her legacy continues through her fifty grandchildren, fifty-eight great grandchildren, twenty-two great great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends whom she regarded as family. Linnie’s life was rooted in love and unity, and she carried that spirit into every relationship.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Henrietta Harrell, all her siblings, her four brothers, Joe, Jessie, Willie, and Lawrence Harrell, her four sisters, Essie Brooks, Juanita Smith, Annie Boykins, and Lucinda Harrell.

Linnie will be remembered with gladness by all who were blessed to know her and to be part of her life.