Obituary of Gerald Evan Barnett

It is with profound sadness that the family of Gerald Barnett, devoted husband of the late Doreen Barnett, announces his passing which occurred on October 27, 2023 at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Born on April 16, 1926, in Hillsborough, NB, he was the son of the late Fen and Beryl (Hoar) Barnett.

Gerald was a successful businessman with much of his focus on Saint John car dealerships. But somehow, he made time to help improve the lives of many others by active involvement with Rotary (District Governor), United Way (Chairman), Probus Club (Founding Chair) and St. David’s United Church (Fundraising Chair) among other organizations.

It is impossible to remember Gerald without also thinking of his wife, Doreen. Whether in the church choir, on the golf course or travelling around the world, they were constantly at each other’s side. They were happily married for 73 years. Their 14 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren were an important part of their lives. And Gerald knew the birth date of every one of them from memory!

Gerald will be remembered fondly as a gentle, kind, and caring man with a quick wry sense of humour devoted to his family and above all, to his wife Doreen.

Gerald is survived by his son, Alan (Claire) Barnett of Halifax, NS; his daughters: Betty (Bill) Dever of Rothesay, NB, Debbie (Neil) Greenacre of Bellingham, WA, Sandra (Mike) Ryall of Kingston, NB, and Linda (Dave) Kent of Hampton, NB; grandchildren: Nicole, Adam, Christopher, Jennifer, Josh, Thomas, Kristen, Lisa, Amanda, Jessie, Katelyn, Leah, Keri and J.D.; fifteen great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Besides his parents, Gerald is predeceased by his brother Don.

The family wishes to express our heartfelt thanks to the team at the Saint John Regional Hospital and, Crissy Wadman and Gloria Johnson for making Gerald as comfortable as possible during his last days.

Friends are invited to join the family in a Celebration of Gerald’s Life between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM on Thursday, November 2nd, 2023, at the Kennebecasis Funeral Home, 152 Pettingill Rd. Quispamsis (849-2119). 

Donations made in memory of Gerald may be given to The Saint John Community Food Basket.