Lee M. Barnett

Alma Lee Murray Barnett died at home on November 18, 2013 after a long battle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. Born in Premier, West Virginia on October 3, 1928, Lee was the eldest daughter of the late Ina and Jesse Murray. Lee was known to her friends in Travelers Rest and Marietta as a woman of strong character and tireless devotion to her family and community. Lee is survived by her husband of sixty-three years, Dr. James E. Barnett, and their three children: Lesha (John) Nix of Conyers, GA; Kimberly (Matt) Elliott of Greenville, SC; and Jim Barnett Jr. (Annalynn) of Greenville, SC, as well as her granddaughter, Margaret Nix of Seattle, WA. She is also survived by her three siblings: Jesse (Camille) of Fort Walton Beach, FL; Bob (Jan) of Greenville, SC; and Mary Ann Tobin of Amelia Island, FL, in addition to many beloved nieces and nephews. Lee was predeceased by her daughter Melanie, her brother Sherman (Gail), and her brother-in-law Tommy. Upon graduation from Winthrop College in 1950 (Bachelor of Arts), Lee and Jim married and moved to Charleston, SC where Jim attended the Medical University of South Carolina and Lee worked for GMAC Financial. Following Jim’s graduation, the couple settled in Travelers Rest to rear their family until retiring to Marietta in 2000. Lee was forever dedicated to her family, church and community. She served as an active member of Travelers Rest United Methodist Church (TRUMC) for which she worked tirelessly in numerous areas of ministry, specifically in missions and with the United Methodist Women (UMW). Her spirit was poignantly captured in a tribute presented to her by TRUMC: “At first she sneaks up on you. Her gentle voice and smile sometimes camouflage Lee’s powerful spirit. Her creativity, enthusiasm and good sense have contributed to UMW and have helped continue and expand a proud tradition.” As a passionate supporter of her community, Lee led Girl Scout troops and served as a member of the Travelers Rest Garden Club, as well as the Greenville County Medical Auxiliary. She was instrumental in expanding the reach of Meals on Wheels to northern Greenville County. Lee enjoyed traveling and was well known for her expertise in the southern kitchen and talents as a seamstress. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the committed caregivers who lovingly devoted themselves to Lee every day throughout her illness. Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 21 at TRUMC at 2:00 p.m. The family will receive friends prior to the service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be at Ebenezer Baptist Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Meals on Wheels 115 Oregon Street Greenville, SC 29615 The family is at home. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.howzemortuary.com. The Howze Mortuary, Travelers Rest, is in charge of arrangements. 864-834-8051.

Lee M. Barnett

October 3, 1928 - November 18, 2013