Kenneth Barnette

Kenneth Jones Barnette, age 77, of Kentwood Street, Lenoir, died Thursday, September 27, 2018 at Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care-Kirkwood. He was born November 2, 1940 in Wilkes County to the late Jones V. and Pearl Dockery Barnette. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a brother, Dale Barnette; and two sisters, Iris Staley and Rachel Jones. Mr. Barnette was a funeral director for over 50 years and was a U. S. Army veteran. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Wilkesboro. Survivors include his wife Elizabeth Walker Barnette of the home; one step-son, Richard Lee Howell, Sr. and wife Rebecca of Sparta, NC; one brother, Earnest Barnette and wife Betty of Clayton, NC; one step-grandson, Richard Lee Howell, Jr and wife Alicia of Walnut Cove, NC; one step-granddaughter, Sheila Howell and husband Rob of Lexington, NC; four step-grandchildren, Mackenzie Howell, Leah Howell, Dakato Howell and Megan Howell; and his longtime friend and caregiver, Glen Jones. Graveside services will be held Monday, October 1, 2018 at 2:00 P.M. at Big Flatts Baptist Church Cemetery, 2373 Big Flatts Church Road, Fleetwood, NC conducted by Rev. Steve Hedgecock. In lieu of flowers the family respectfully requests memorial contributions may be made to Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care, 902 Kirkwood Street, Lenoir, NC 28645 or First Baptist Church of Whitnel, PO Box 2999, Lenoir, NC 28645 Online condolences may be left at www.greer-mcelveenfuneralhome.com. Greer-McElveen Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the Barnette family.