Welcome Gene Barnett, age 91, passed away on May 10, 2024, at his home in Saltillo, TX. Gene was born July 12, 1932, in New Hope, TX. He was the son of Welcome Earl Barnett and Ollie (Rice) Barnett.
Following graduation from Saltillo High School in 1953, Gene married Imogene (White) Barnett. They were married for 70 years. Gene joined the Dallas Police Department in 1956. He was the last living Dallas Police officer to have witnessed President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. In 1965, he joined the Department of Public Safety and retired in 1992 as an Honorary Texas Ranger. Gene’s hobbies included singing with gospel groups including the Kingsmen and Saintsmen. He has been a Mason
since 1954. He also enjoyed ranching and visiting with family and friends.
Gene is survived by his wife, Imogene, and children; Gary Barnett (Stephanie), Terry Williams (Rick), Cary Barnett (Kathy), and Jerry Barnett (Paula). Grandchildren; Brandon Barnett (Lauren), Brady Barnett (Lanese), Lance Williams (Kristen), Lindsay McCoy (Jeff), Justin Barnett (Macy), Serenity Barnett, Preston Mays, Blake Barnett (Kaitlyn), Katie Barnett, and Sadie Barnett. Great-grandchildren; Beckham, Sloan, Talia, Jolie, Landri, Reese, Carter, and Leighton.
A visitation will be held from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Monday, May 13, 2024, at Murray-Orwosky Funeral Home. The funeral will be a private family graveside service on Tuesday.
