James Robert "Brushrat" Barnett

James Robert Barnett, affectionately known as "Brushrat" to family and friends, 81, of Athens, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 16, 2026.

Jim was born on February 3, 1945, to the late Lake and Edna Barnett of Englewood, Tennessee. He grew up in Englewood alongside his two brothers and sister, where he developed a love for the outdoors and a knack for getting into a little mischief. Jim attended Englewood High School, where he played football until the school was destroyed by fire, and later graduated from McMinn High School. During his high school years, Jim met Linda, whom he later married. He went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Navy on the USS Wain Wright.

During his time in the Navy, Jim developed valuable skills and a love for working with his hands that would serve him throughout his life. Upon returning home, he began a career at Bowater, where he worked for more than 30 years. Jim took great pride in his work and was known for his dedication and tireless work ethic. If there were more hours in the day, he likely would have worked every one of them.

In the 1980s, Jim purchased a farm that became one of his greatest joys. Over the years, he raised cattle and horses, including a few favorites named Sonny Boy, Pretty Girl, and Big Mama. He had a special love for his horses and enjoyed spending time with friends on weeklong wagon train rides throughout the South. Following his retirement from Bowater, Jim was happiest spending his days on the farm, remodeling his house, working on projects, and doing what he loved most - "piddling." He was truly a jack of all trades who could build, fix, create, or rig up just about anything. There was rarely a project too big or a problem he couldn't find a way to solve...at least after a couple of tries and adding in some of his own ingenuity.

Jim enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, including taking pictures, watching old Westerns, listening to classic country music, and dancing at Baker's Place. And, of course, no outfit was complete without one of his beloved Stetson cowboy hats! He loved the outdoors, his animals, and keeping himself busy. Sitting still was never really his style.

Those who knew Jim will remember his quick wit, sense of humor, practical jokes, and unmistakable stubborn streak. He was strong-willed, independent, and liked doing things his own way. Jim especially loved Christmas and never missed an opportunity to play a good joke on someone. If you ever received something strange or unexpected in the mail and couldn't figure out where it came from, there was a pretty good chance Jim was behind it! He had a way of keeping people laughing, guessing, and occasionally shaking their heads.

Above all, Jim lived life on his own terms. He worked hard, enjoyed the things he loved, and left behind countless stories and memories that will continue to bring smiles and laughter to those who knew him.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his sister, Marcella; his brother, Rick; and his former wife and friend, Linda.

Jim is survived by his sons, Clark and Spencer Barnett; his granddaughters, Peayton and Layla; his brother, Chris and his beloved dog, Dubb.

While Jim will be deeply missed, his family will forever cherish the memories, laughter, and stories he leaves behind. His strong will, mischievous spirit, and one-of-a-kind personality will not soon be forgotten. There was only one Brushrat, and those who knew and loved him wouldn't have had him any other way.

The family would like to extend their deepest and most heartfelt appreciation to the wonderful staff at Brookdale Mount Vernon in Cleveland, Tennessee. The kindness, compassion, patience, and genuine love they showed Jim throughout his time there meant more to his family than words can express. They went above and beyond to ensure he was comfortable, cared for, and treated with dignity and respect. Knowing Jim was surrounded by people who truly cared for him brought his family tremendous peace of mind, and for that, they will always be grateful.

The family would also like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Chattanooga, especially Lee and Shasta, for their compassion, kindness, and unwavering support. Their dedication to Jim's comfort and well-being, along with the genuine care and kindness they showed him and his family throughout his journey, will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held at a later date, with details to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jim's memory to the McMinn County Humane Society.

You are invited to share a personal memory of Jim or your condolences with his family at his online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Cleveland and the Cody family are honored to assist the family with these arrangements.