Bessie 'Pauline' Barnett, Longtime Jonesborough Resident, Dies at 96

Barnett was a faithful member of Eden Methodist Church and an active community volunteer.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Bessie 'Pauline' Barnett, a 96-year-old resident of Jonesborough, Tennessee, passed away on March 5, 2026 after a long battle with dementia. Barnett lived in Jonesborough for over 60 years and was a faithful attendee of Eden Methodist Church. She was also active in the Jonesborough Home Demonstration Club, Eastern Star, and served as a judge for the annual district fair.

Why it matters

Barnett's passing marks the end of an era for Jonesborough, a town that has seen significant changes over the decades. As one of the community's longest-serving and most engaged residents, Barnett's life exemplified the values of small-town America and the importance of civic involvement.

The details

Barnett was the oldest of twelve children born to Andy and Alma Banner Arnett. She was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Donald J. (Dana) Barnett, as well as several siblings. Barnett is survived by three children, seven grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren. She was known as a talented seamstress and quilter, with each family member cherishing a quilt made especially for them by Barnett.

  • Bessie 'Pauline' Barnett passed away on March 5, 2026.
  • Barnett was just five days short of her 97th birthday, which would have been on March 10, 1929.

The players

Bessie 'Pauline' Barnett

A 96-year-old resident of Jonesborough, Tennessee who passed away after a long battle with dementia. Barnett was a faithful member of Eden Methodist Church and an active community volunteer.

Donald J. (Dana) Barnett

Bessie 'Pauline' Barnett's husband of 70 years, who passed away before her.

Andy and Alma Banner Arnett

Bessie 'Pauline' Barnett's parents, who she was the oldest of twelve children born to.

Eden Methodist Church

The church that Bessie 'Pauline' Barnett faithfully attended for over 60 years.

Jonesborough Home Demonstration Club

A community organization that Bessie 'Pauline' Barnett was active in supporting.

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The takeaway

Bessie 'Pauline' Barnett's life and legacy serve as a testament to the enduring values of small-town America, where community engagement, faith, and family are cherished. Her passing marks the end of an era in Jonesborough, but her impact will continue to be felt through the many lives she touched over her 96 years.