Ronald E. Barnett, Sr. – Metropolitan Funeral

Ronald Eugene Barnett, Sr. was born January 28, 1949 to the late Arthur “Pudding” Barnett, Sr.  and the late Lillie Virginia Barnett in Norfolk, VA. He was a proud graduate of Booker T. Washington High School and attended Norfolk State University prior to being drafted into the United States Army in 1970. While enlisted, he served during the Vietnam War (1970-1971), and was promoted as a Drill Sergeant First Class in the Army Reserves, 80th Division. “Ronnie” met and married the love of his life, Virginia “Jackie” White, in May 29, 1970 and to that union they were blessed with six children and 21 grandchildren.

“Barnett” as he was referred to by many, retired from Navy Public Works Center after 32.5 years of service as a welder.  He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1997. Since his retirement, Ronnie filled the majority of his time enjoying gardening, fishing, and watching documentaries.  He also took joy in supporting his wife in ministry, and fulfilling his role as an active husband, father, and grandfather.  He rededicated his life to serving God and discipleship. He served his church, Immanuel Worship & Deliverance Ministries, Int’l as an usher, male choir member, Trustee, and Deacon. He was an avid student of the Bible, enjoyed singing worship songs and would be the first to grab the tambourine.

Ronald Barnett Sr. was predeceased in death by his wife, Virginia Barnett; a brother, Arthur “Butch” Barnett, Jr.; two brothers-in-law, Gregory White and Calvin White.

He leaves his legacy of children: Rhonda Vaughn, LaTonya Barnett, Sonia Barnett-Ketter (Perry), Donita Gordon (Nicholas), Ronald Barnett, Jr. (Shylisle), Dana Watson (Arthur); 21 grandchildren, Briana, Angel, Tamera, Perry Jr., Jonathan Jr., Nikiya, Antonio, Ronald “Lil’Ronnie”,  Nicholas Jr., Justin, Nadia, Christian, Tiana, Daijah, Arthur (Trey), Nevaeh, Natalie, Marcus, Essence, Zaniyah and Kayla; one uncle, Earl Barnett;  two sisters, Linda Johnson (Joe) and Paulette Watson (Al); one brother, Shelby Barnett Sr.; four sisters-in-law, Monica Brown, Angela Lee (Hosea), Wanda White and Veronica White; five brothers-in-law, Charles White (Doretha), Garland White, William Morning (Renee), Edward  Gray (Pamela), Danny Hill (Sheila) and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.