William "Ken" Barnett

After a long journey through illness, William McKinley “Ken” Barnett was welcomed home to Heaven on November 3, 2025, completely healed and surrounded by the peace of his Savior.  He was born on May 14, 1943, in Perry County Kentucky a son of the late Mitchell and Stella Byrge Barnett.

Ken was a godly man of quiet strength, deep faith, and immeasurable love. A pastor, funeral director, husband, father, and “Papaw,” he lived every day with purpose — serving others, guiding with grace, and leading his family by example. His presence brought calm, his laughter warmth, and his wisdom light to everyone blessed to know him.  He shared a lifelong love with his devoted wife of 56 years, Linda Liles Barnett, his partner in every sense of the word. Their marriage reflected faithfulness and devotion — the kind of love that endures through every season. Together, they raised a family that became his pride and joy. His daughters knew him as their steady place, their encourager, and their voice of reason. His advice was always thoughtful, often profound, and seemed to hold the quiet assurance of someone who already understood how things would turn out.  Becoming a grandfather brought him immense happiness. He adored his grandchildren and never missed a moment to celebrate them. He was there waiting excitedly outside the delivery room for the first cries of new life, eager to share the good news with everyone he could. His face would light up with pure joy every time they called his name — “Papaw.”  In recent years, his joy multiplied with the arrival of his three great-grandchildren, who adored him just as deeply as he adored them. Their laughter, hugs, and visits filled his days with delight. The love they shared was a beautiful reflection of his gentle spirit — steady, kind, and full of wisdom even in the simplest moments.  He had a rare gift of making people feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether through his ministry, his work, or quiet conversations at home, his wisdom and compassion left a mark on countless lives.  Though his passing leaves a deep ache, we rejoice knowing he is home — whole again, reunited with loved ones, and resting in the eternal presence of the Lord he faithfully served.

He leaves behind his beloved wife Linda Liles Barnett; three daughters, Julia Sigmon (Jeff) of Taylorsville NC, Cynthia Silver (Wayne Rogers)of Thomasville, NC, Vanessa Goforth (Jody) of Hiddenite NC; four cherished grandchildren, Cody Sigmon, Elexis Barnett, Landon Silver and Adeline Silver; three great-grandchildren, Gianna, Xander and Elianna Alvarez, who will forever carry his love and legacy in their hearts.

A service celebrating William’s life will be held at J. C. Green & Sons Funeral Home in Winston Salem on Thursday November 6, 2025 at 2:00pm with entombment to follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Winston-Salem, NC. The family will receive friends and family at the home after the committal service. *Service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend.  See link below.


“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.