Gary Barnett, 74, of Murphy, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2021, in an Asheville VA medical center.
He was a native and lifetime resident of Cherokee County.
He was a Vietnam War veteran serving in the United States Air Force.
Gary worked in construction most of his life, but his favorite pastime was working on cars. He enjoyed coaching softball for Hayesville High School for many years. Gary was a devoted Christian and taught Sunday School at Maggie’s Chapel for many years.
He was the son of the late Wilburn Claude and Lois West Barnett, and husband of the late Patricia Kilpatrick Barnett.
Surviving are a daughter, Kandace Barnett-Roberts and husband Aaron of Murphy; and a cousin, whom he considered a sister, Darlene Kuykendal of Waynesville.
A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 3, in Maggie’s Chapel Cemetery with the Revs. Tony Ware and Ronnie Crisp officiating, and military honors provided by the Hayesville VFW Post 6812, Hayesville American Legion Post 532 and Murphy American Legion Post 96. Pallbearers will be Norman Roberts, Caleb Roberts, Chase Roberts, Alex Roberts, Travis Seabolt and Andrew Cheeks.
Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhome.com.