Fond memories recalled

For years, Barnett, 50, had been the voice and face of Wickline Methodist, but although he’s passed on, the fond memories of many people linger as evidenced by the church’s Web site memorial page and the Web site guest book created by Sunny Lane Funeral Home and Cemetery.

People from Barnett’s church, high school days and those he touched used the Web pages to recount their experiences with the longtime minister.

Wickline church member Linda Hodge wrote, “My heart is heavy with grief from the loss of a dear, dear friend. I will miss the sound of his laughter as he responded to our corny jokes. Mark made my life better by encouraging positive thinking and loving deeds. What a legacy he has left behind.”

High school friend Debbie Stark Powell wrote on the church’s memorial page that she was saddened by the news of Barnett’s death.

“Every time I think of Mark, I think of his great big smile and his beautiful personality. Lots of laughter and wonderful memories. His classmates of Atoka High School “Seniors of 1979” will never forget him.”

Pastoral influence
Barnett’s passion for God and his influence on others was felt by people hundreds of miles from Midwest City.

Pete and Zona Williams, of Apopka, Fla., wrote “We’ve visited Wickline many times over the years as our son, Thomas E. Williams, and his wife, Donna, are members. Mark was a strong influence over our children. His work will never be forgotten, and he will be remembered always through the way this family will live the rest of their lives.”

Lynne Williams wrote on the web page that she remembers Barnett’s “huge smile” and “bear hugs.”

“He has left us too soon. However, he didn’t get cheated. He lived every moment of his life. He spread joy, humor, faith and love in every facet of his life. He found his soul mate, had daughters who are reflections of him and discovered a son to share his life,” she wrote.

Deb Oliver remembered meeting Barnett for coffee one day because of depression and disappointment she was experiencing.

“I told him that I was like a little kid at Christmas that got the shiny fire truck, the cool robot, but was mad because I didn’t get the bicycle. Mark smiled, patted my hand and said, ‘Miss Deb, don’t you see? Many, when they don’t get their bicycle don’t even notice the fire truck, or acknowledge it.’ I immediately went from feeling like a loser to a winner. It entirely changed my outlook on faith and my own growth,” she wrote.

Barnett is survived by his wife, Linda; children Taylor Morgan, Brendan May and honorary son, Joe Nett; sister Pamela Bolt and her husband Tom; brother Kerry Barnett, and his wife, Tammy.

Memorial donations in Barnett’s honor can be made to Wickline United Methodist Church, Oklahoma City University Barnett-Widener Scholarship or The United Methodist Foundation.