Joseph William Barrett

Joseph William Barrett, 79, of Waverly Hall, Georgia, sadly passed away on October 21, 2024 at St. Francis. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and brother who touched lives of all who knew him with his kind heart and spirited personality.

Joseph was born on August 7, 1945 in Kensington, England. In his early adulthood, he spent several years as a member of the Georgia National Guard. Following his military service, he dedicated many years of his life to his career as a structural and miscellaneous steel draftsman, most recently for Atchley Steel Company, working diligently until his well-deserved retirement. He was also proud to serve as a member of the Police Auxiliary, volunteered as a fireman, and was a city council member for several years in charge of water in Waverly Hall, embodying the spirit of community and service that he held so dear. His commitment extended beyond his career, exemplifying the virtue of hard work and leading by example in every facet of his life.

Throughout his years, Joseph was known for his brilliant mind and eccentricity, characteristics that made him not just unique but also immensely endearing to his family and friends. He had a big heart and always made it a point to look after those around him, ensuring that no one felt alone or unsupported. Joseph was a God-fearing Christian and strived to show the unconditional love of Christ to everyone around him. As the patriarch of his family, he took pride in fostering close bonds and was especially cherished as he welcomed his children’s friends into their lives, treating them as if they were his own. 

In addition to being a loving family man, Joseph had many passions that he pursued with gusto. He played the bagpipes, often causing playful exasperation for Sharon and the neighbors alike, yet he never let that hinder his love for music. His interests extended to beekeeping, hunting, fishing, raising rabbits, and engaging in the unique hobby of bat counting for the Department of Natural Resources. Joseph was also skilled in reloading his own ammunition, reflecting his love for the outdoors and adventure.

Among his proudest accomplishments was his cherished role as Waverly Hall Santa, a position he embraced with a generous spirit for three generations. He truly embodied the essence of St. Nick, spreading joy and laughter during the holiday season and throughout the year. He also served as Past Worshipful Master and Secretary at the Gordon Masonic Lodge #108 where he was a dedicated member for many years.

His love for his family was immeasurable. Joseph is remembered fondly by his devoted wife of 58 years, Sharon McVety Barrett; his daughter, Cynthia Riles and her husband Billy; his son, Joseph Barrett Jr. and his wife Andrea; his brother, Robert "Rocky" Barrett and his wife Jane; and his cherished grandchildren: Brittany Powell and her husband Jonathan, Ricky Barrett, Trevor Barrett and his wife Alexis, Jamison Clark and his wife Savannah, Shelby Fuller and her husband Zack, William "Billy J" Ross, and Anastasia Schielke and her husband Dean. He also leaves behind ten great-grandchildren, all of whom were the light of his life.

Joseph is now reunited in eternal peace with his parents, Tabour S. Barrett and Kathleen Wheeler Barrett; his stepmother, Sylvia Barrett; and his brother, Bruce Barrett.

The visitation to honor Joseph’s memory will be held on November 3, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Vance Brooks Funeral Home in Columbus, Georgia. He will be greatly missed, yet his warm spirit, joyful laughter, and loving heart will always resonate in the lives he touched.