Milton Darwin Barnett

Milton Darwin Barnett was born on October 3, 1930 in Robertson County (Edge, TX) to parents Ruby Blackstone Barnett and Matthew Abraham Barnett. He passed from this life on May 16, 2007. The youngest of six children, he lost his father in a tragic accident at the age of 5. His older siblings rallied around Darwin and his mother after their loss and forged a bond that is still very strong today. At age 13, he and his mother moved to Huntsville, Texas where he graduated from Huntsville High School in 1948. While attending high school, he excelled at many things including (playing) football as a Huntsville Hornet. Continuing his education in Huntsville, he achieved a Bachelors Degree in Education, from Sam Houston State University in just 3 years. Later, he completed his Masters Degree and attained his (school and vocational) counseling certification. Darwin moved to Texas City at age 21 to begin his 34 year career as an educator in the Texas City Independent School District. He began as an Industrial Arts teacher at Levi Fry Junior High School (and TCHS wood shop). Later, he was promoted to Assistant Principal of Texas City High School and ultimately retired as the Principal of Roosevelt(-Wilson) Elementary School. Administrators (and the) teachers, and staff respected him greatly for his leadership, support and friendship. During summer breaks and weekends, he sold insurance for South Coast Life Insurance Company and received awards for top sales for several years. He participated in the Texas City Little League and Softball League. Darwin was a committed and active member of the following organizations: Texas City Masonic Lodge 1118 Past Master, El Mina Shrine Galveston, Shrine Burn Corp of Transportation Galveston, Arabia Shrine Houston, Forest Lodge 19 Past Master Huntsville, Sam Houston Shrine Club Huntsville, San Jacinto Masonic Lodge Willis 106, Lions Club Huntsville, and the First Methodist Church of Huntsville. These organizations were his true passions and he gave freely of his time and energy in many capacities. For example, he served as Webmaster for the Texas City Masonic Lodge, Willis Masonic Lodge, Sam Houston Shrine Club and the Lions club. He also assisted with the First Methodist Church’s web site. He spent many hours teaching other men their Masonic work and acting as their mentor. Anyone who knew Darwin respected and admired his commitment to God, to family and community. He is survived by wife, Barbara, of 25 years; Children: Reda DeVries (daughter) and husband Tommy, Reggie Barnett (son) and wife Sabrina, Russell Barnett (son), Cynthia Hunt (daughter), Angela Epperly (daughter), Robert Morris (son) and wife Alicia, and Richard Morris (son) and wife Anna Maria. Grandchildren: Matthew and Ashley Barnett, Jake Brittain, Julie and Per Ekre , Kelli Coy, Meagan Wright, Norman Wright II, Rachel Epperly, Rebecca Epperly, Derek Hunt, Alanah Hunt, Christine Morris, and Stephanie Morris. Great grandchildren: Jaylin Thomas, Christian Barnett, Collin Barnett, Carson Barnett, Rylee Wright, Skylar Coy and Noah Hunt. Brother and wife: Hugh and Margaret Barnett Sisters: Marie and Judd Cope, Gladys Sanders, and Ennie LaGrone. Numerous nieces and nephews. Life long friend of 76 years: Duane Ryclick of Bryan, TX. Preceded in death by his eldest sister, Dorothy Bolton. All who knew him will miss him dearly. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at www.shmfh.com.

Milton Darwin Barnett

October 3, 1930 - May 19, 2007